Businesses in Elgin will continue to contribute to the promotion of town centre shopping through the Elgin BID for a further five years.
That was the decision of a ballot in November that saw almost half of those businesses entitled to vote failing to do so.
In total 216 of the 407 businesses entitled to return ballot papers did so, with 122 (56.5%) in favour while 94 (43.5%) voted against continuing Elgin BID for a further five years.
The result was announced in the Gallery Room at Elgin Library on Tuesday and was immediately met with delighted by the Board of the City of Elgin BID Ltd.
Chairman David Urquhart said: “We are delighted that the businesses have cast their democratic vote and given us their permission to continue on the journey we started five years ago.
“During that time a lot has been achieved and we are immensely proud of activities we have undertaken. We are in no way complacent about the level of work still required and what the next five years will bring – but are keen and determined to rise to the challenge of continuing the regeneration of the Town Centre and making it a must visit destination.”
BID vice-chairman David Robertson expressed his thanks to businesses that had taken the time to send in their ballot papers, adding: “This result confirms the passion that so many of the businesses within the City of Elgin have.”
Mr Roberson also sent out a message to all businesses in the BID area by adding: “You have our word that we will continue to work tirelessly on your behalf and look forward to the exciting developments that the next five years will bring.
“I genuinely believe that together we will be able to achieve far more than working alone.”