Okehampton BID launches fresh push to hear what local businesses need

Businesses in Okehampton are being invited to give their views on an emerging three-year strategy for the town's Business Improvement District (BID).

Okehampton BID manager Duncan Swift is holding three drop-in sessions in September to discuss the plans with BID levy-payers.

The three sessions take place within five days of each other and are being held as follows:

• Monday, 7 September: Okehampton Business Centre, 8am to 9.30am
• Wednesday, 9 September: Okehampton Town Hall, 8.30am to 10am
• Friday, 11 September: Okehampton Business Centre, 8am to 9.30am

Mr Swift said he had developed the emerging three-year strategy since being appointed in June.

He said it builds on existing BID projects and includes "clear, identifiable actions" designed to directly benefit levy-payers.

He said a significant number of the initiatives were structured to have an impact within the next six to 12 months.

"I want to give you a genuine voice in shaping these plans, so they work for your specific business needs," Mr Swift said.

Sessions are open to all BID levy-payers, who can attend whichever date and location suits them.

The strategy comes as Okehampton enters a period of change, including the opening of the new Okehampton Interchange railway station earlier this month on Saturday 1 August.

Okehampton BID has said it is making enquiries into improving bus connections and visitor signage between the new station and the town.

It is also considering the implications of Devon's local government reorganisation, under which Okehampton is due to become part of the new Devon Coast & Countryside unitary authority when the new structure takes effect in April 2028.

The BID has said the changes could affect how business support, regeneration and investment are organised across Devon.

September’s sessions will allow BID levy-payers to discuss the emerging strategy with Mr Swift and give their views on the proposals.