Milton Keynes City Council has welcomed the decision by businesses across Central Milton Keynes to continue the MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District (BID), unlocking millions of pounds of investment for the city centre over the next five years.
The BID renewal proposal received overwhelming support from participating businesses, with almost 97% of votes cast in favour. The result gives MyMiltonKeynes a new mandate to continue its work from 2027 to 2032.
A BID is a business-led partnership that gives local organisations a say in how their area develops. Businesses contribute through payments, creating a dedicated fund that is used to deliver projects and services that go beyond those normally provided by public bodies, contributing to a cleaner, safer and more attractive city centre.
Milton Keynes City Council has worked closely with MyMiltonKeynes and local businesses since the BID was first established and has supported a wide range of projects that have helped strengthen the city centre as a place to work, visit and invest.
Since 2017, more than £11 million has been invested through MyMiltonKeynes, funding city centre security, public realm improvements, marketing and events and major projects that help businesses and the city centre thrive.
The successful ballot means this work will continue as Milton Keynes grows. The funding will support further improvements to the city centre, enhance the experience of residents, workers and visitors, back local employers, attract investment and help ensure Central Milton Keynes remains a vibrant destination for shopping, leisure, culture and business.
Working alongside the city council and other partners, MyMiltonKeynes will continue delivering projects that make a visible difference, helping create a city centre that is clean, safe, welcoming and ready for the future.
"We're delighted that businesses have voted to continue the MyMiltonKeynes BID and have given such strong backing to the partnership's work. This result reflects the progress that has been made over the past decade to make Central Milton Keynes cleaner, safer and more attractive, while supporting businesses and creating a better experience for residents and visitors.
"We're looking forward to continuing our work with MyMiltonKeynes and local businesses to build on this success, attract further investment and ensure Central Milton Keynes remains a vibrant destination at the heart of our city."
"No single organisation can create a successful city centre on its own. What makes Milton Keynes different is the willingness of businesses, the Council and partners to work together around a shared ambition for the city. The BID plays an important role in bringing those conversations together, helping turn ideas into action and ensuring the city centre is well positioned for the opportunities ahead.”