The expanded Broadmead should open in 2008

Businesses in Broadmead are to be given the chance to vote on becoming a Business Improvement District, giving them more say on what happens locally.

If a majority vote in favour of the scheme in June, all businesses will be required to contribute 1.5% of their rateable value over three years.

The revamp is a follow-on to the £500m expansion of Broadmead that is currently in the pipeline.

John Hirst, Broadmead manager, said: "Retailers have given us a clear insight into their aspirations and concerns for the future.

"We have listened and developed a plan that makes use of BID (Business Improvement District) funds to make Broadmead more appealing."

The BID plan, including artist's impressions of the revamped Broadmead, is being launched on 20 April at the Podium.