BARROW town centre traders have voted a resounding 'yes' to setting up a Business Improvement District (BID).

It means businesses in the area will be able to raise £800,000 towards improvements over the next five years.

BIDs are funded by a levy on business rates.

They can be set up only if a majority of businesses, and a majority by rateable value, support the idea.

Of the 213 votes cast, 165, or 77.5 percent, voted in favour, and they represented 73 per cent by rateable value.

The turnout was 46.2 per cent.

Phil Collier, chairman of the BID steering group, said:”I am delighted that the businesses have voted so overwhelmingly in favour.

"It confirms beyond any doubt that businesses in Barrow share a common desire, to improve the town centre for themselves, their customers and visitors to the town.

"Around 18 months of work has got us to this point and we have a lot of people to thank for their support.

"It has truly been a joint effort that has involved the business community, the local media, the local authorities, community organisations and many other people in Barrow.

"We must continue to work together in this way, because it will deliver the rewards that Barrow deserves”.

Simon Craig, vice chairman of the BID steering group, added: "The response to the steering group canvassing has been on the whole extremely positive and I thank all the businesses who have taken the time to return their ballot forms.

"A 77 per cent positive really does show how keen we are to address the issues that are affecting our town.

"The next stage is to set up the Barrow BID company to represent the 461 eligible businesses within the BID boundary and to ensure that it delivers the business plan that has been so overwhelmingly supported."

"I am really excited to see where we can take Barrow in the next five years.”