A plan to create a better environment for local businesses is set to be discussed by Lichfield City Council.

The local Town Team has launched a feasibility study into the creation of a Lichfield Business Improvement District (BID).

The project would see companies with properties in the area pay a small supplement on top of their business rates which is then used to improve security, publicity and liason between local firms.

If the BID gets the go-ahead it is expected to generate around £250,000 a year.

A report, to be discussed by City Councillors on Monday (November 25), said: “BIDs have been shown to increase footfall and trade, and have boosted the overall health of many city centres.

“With high-street premises facing increasing competition from online shopping, and council expenditure being cut-back, the direct resources that a BID provides can make the all-important difference in the long-term economic viability of a city centre.”

Should a BID get the go-ahead, the scheme will need to be supported by more than half of the business premises in the area.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.