Oswestry firms have voted to implement a Business Improvement District in the town.

The result of the ballot was announced this afternoon.

For the BID to go ahead, a majority of those businesses voting had to register a 'yes' vote, and the aggregate rateable value of those voting had to be greater than those voting 'no'.

As it turned out, 68 per cent of the votes cast supported the BID proposal, equating to 72 per cent of the rateable value.

Under the terms of the BID, all businesses in Oswestry town centre, and those on the Maesbury business park, with a rateable value of £12,000 or more, will have to pay 1.75 per cent of their business rates into a special fund.

Over the five-year term of the BID, this will total about £1.5 million.

According to the BID business plan, which now has to be followed, the money will be used to raise the profile of Oswestry, to offer business support and investment, making the town a 'great place to be', and making it an accessible and safe environment.