COUNCILLORS are being asked to approve the next stages in a process to develop a Business Improvement District (BID) to support the drive for economic growth in Burnley town centre.

The partnerships which are created to deliver additional projects and services to benefit businesses in an area for a limited period, usually five years.

A small levy is charged to all businesses in that area to fund the initiatives, typically between one to two per cent a business's rateable value.

A BID can only be set up following a successful ballot of businesses in that area.

Cllr Sue Graham, the council's executive member for regeneration and business growth, said: "Burnley Council works closely with businesses across the borough to support economic growth.

"This scheme will help further support Burnley town centre businesses by funding initiatives that will bring in more shoppers and support those businesses to grow.

"This is about businesses, supported by the council, driving forward the town centre economy."

Brian Hobbs, chairman of Burnley and District Chamber of Trade, said: "Developing a Burnley town centre BID is an opportunity for businesses to work together to create a more vibrant and dynamic town centre and support the further economic growth and development of Burnley."