SHOPS in Worcester city centre have spoken out against a scheme they say will cost them hundreds of pounds a year and not improve their trade.

Owners of some shops in Mealcheapen Street said they would be voting against the proposed Worcester business improvement district (BID) in the ballot which finishes on Friday, October 30.

They said the money they pay for their business rates, which go directly to central government before being distributed back to local councils, should provide everything the BID is proposing.

Tim Smith, owner of sporting outfitters F Durrant and Son, said having to pay an extra £300 a year for five years could signal the end for the business, which has been operating in the city for nearly 200 years.

He agreed something needs to be done to increase custom, especially in Mealcheapen Street, and improve the type of shops that operate in the city centre but he thought the BID policies were “wishy washy”.

He said: “I don’t think they make sense or are feasible. I just don’t think it will make a difference.”

Mr Smith also questioned whether businesses would be asked to continue paying into the pot once the five-year period is over.

Keith Marshall-Walker, owner of Paint Box, thought he would have to pay an extra £150 a year and was not convinced by the whole process either. However, Dominic Tunnell, owner of G Tunnell opticians, said while he would be slightly annoyed at having to pay extra money on top of his business rates, he could see the benefits.

“If it’s going to do what they’re saying it will and bring more people into the city, then as retailers that’s what we want,” he said.

We previously reported in your Worcester News how the Worcester BID could see firms contribute more than £1.6 million over five years.

If a majority of the 613 businesses eligible vote in favour by both number and rateable value, a 1.5 per cent levy will be mandatory on practically all businesses in the BID area, which broadly covers Castle Street to Sidbury, flanked by the river Severn and City Walls Road.

Charity shops would have an 80 per cent discount so, for example, the Citizens Advice Bureau in The Hopmarket would pay £48 a year towards the scheme, which will provide services above and beyond what can be expected of the local authorities.

Street entertainers, taxi marshals, new Christmas lights and parking payable by mobile phone are among projects promised if the scheme gets the go-ahead.

Full details on the BID can be seen online at worcester bid.com or by calling project manager Adrian Field on 01905 722337.