A FOCUS on "safety and security" will continue at Wee County business parks after Clacksfirst BID was given a renewed vote of confidence.

The business improvement district organisation has been given a mandate to continue its work until 2028, having gone to the ballot box again this March.

The BID will remain focused on safety and security, while looking at a weekly recycling service, improvements to business parks and more.

Kevin Deighan, of Clacksfirst BID, told the Advertiser: "Throughout the existence of the BID, one aspect has always been a priority for the businesses, and that is safety and security.

"Prior to the BID installing CCTV in 2011, the BID area could perhaps be described as vulnerable to criminal activity.

"The BID's co-ordinated approach to tackling crime has helped reduce reported crime since then."

Clacksfirst BID was originally formed in 2008 for a five-year period and has been renewed for the fourth term.

The recycling service diverts at least 700 tonnes of materials from landfill each week and the BID also delivers a monthly free wood recycling service.

Prior to the BID coming into existence, business parks and industrial estates were neglected to the extent that signage had become dilapidated. As such, it was felt these sites did little to stimulate businesses, develop local talent or cultivate inward investment.

Kevin added: "After early consultation with the businesses in the area, the consensus was that investment should be made to enhance the appearance of the area.

"A more dynamic environment was created by removing signage that had fallen into disrepair and replaced them with the Clacksfirst-branded signage we have now.

"The signage is maintained, repaired and updated.

"Without the BID, the reality would be that the signage, CCTV, recycling services, winter maintenance, defibrillators, our online training academy and all other measures put in place by the BID would cease to exist."

The successful ballot means Clacksfirst BID can represent its member businesses for another five years and Kevin said: "We have never taken success at the ballot for granted, we need to make sure our members see a return for their levy investment and that is what we will continue to do in the next term.

"Of those businesses who voted, 79 per cent of headcount and 80 per cent of aggregate rateable value voted in favour.

"That still means 20 per cent remain to be convinced that the BID has value and it is my job to engage in conversation with them to see how they can benefit, save time and most importantly, save money, from our projects and services."

Provost Donald Balsillie also added his support and gave thanks for the group's hard work since 2008.

He said: "Notable improvements include the provision and improvement of CCTV security cameras, signage and maintenance, defibrillators and training, recycling initiatives, salt bins enhancing our local business areas.

"I hope this work will continue and I wish you all the best for a successful BID."