Carluke BID schemesurvives latest storm

The Business Improvement District (BID) project has provoked various arguments in Carluke since it was launched last year but matters came to a head last month when the Carluke BID annual general meeting was called off at the last minute, followed by the news that both the scheme’s chairman, Martin Hannah, and its manager, Jim McNally, had resigned.

The now ex-chairman then released a statment containing a stinging attack on what he claimed was South Lanarkshire Council’s interference in the running of Carluke BID

While this was a major blow to the scheme, it seems now it was not a fatal one.

A new BID manager - John Montgomery - and chairman - Brian Clark - have taken over and a statement was issued this week, announcing it was forging ahead with its plans.

It said: “BID is embarking upon an upgrade of Carluke’s town centre environment in response to what customers and businesses are telling us is important. A facelift of some properties has started and will soon be completed – allowing for the weather!

“People should soon start to notice a brighter look to the town.

“In January we shall be launching a Property Improvement Grant Scheme to boost the appearance of the town centre. This scheme makes grants of up to £1000 available to upgrade business premises. It covers things such as shopfronts, signage, lighting, replacement shutters and internal shop layout.

Businesses should submit applications now so that grants can be approved in early January.

Application forms are available on the BID website, at: www.carlukebid.co.uk