VOTING to decide whether Warrington should have a town centre Business Improvement District (BID) is under way.

A series of briefing sessions have been set up to answer any questions from those interested.

The briefing sessions are being run by the Warrington BID business team headed by Primark manager Dawn Smyth.

Setting up the district would give companies the chance to carry out activities, projects and services, with the aim of the making the town centre 'more economically vibrant, safer, cleaner and greener'.

More than 200 city and town centres across the UK have chosen to implement successful BIDs since 2005, including Liverpool, Manchester and Chester.

If it gets the required support, a private sector-led town centre investment totalling more than £1.5 million will begin in the summer.

Voting closes on March 28, with the result to be announced a day later.

Ms Smyth said: "The vote represents an exciting opportunity to empower businesses and create a more vibrant and diverse shopping experience for all, from independent traders to large-scale retail organisations.

"We should all benefit from increased visitors in the town.

"I sincerely believe that it will make a huge difference to our town centre through us working together to improve marketing, events, transport, cleansing and security.

"I would encourage all businesses to vote.

"Do come and discuss the proposals for the BID, if you are in any doubt, at one of our drop-in sessions."

Town centre businesses are encouraged to attend one of the following consultation events:

•         Friday 2nd March 1.30 – 2.30pm at Golden Square management suite

•         Monday 5th March 12pm – 1pm at The Base, Dallam Lane

•         Monday 5th March 5.30 – 6.30pm at The Pyramid, Palmyra Square

•         Tuesday 6th March 12pm – at The Pyramid, Palmyra Square

•         Friday 9th March 12.00 -1.00pm at Golden Square management suite

For more information visit warringtonbid.co.uk