Supporters of a campaign to create a Business Improvement District (BID) for Lowestoft say the future economic development of the town has been secured following an overwhelming yes vote by businesses in the town.

Results published last night show that more than 70% of those businesses that voted gave the plans their backing to proposals to create a BID. Local firms needed to give the go ahead for the BID plans to go ahead.

John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce described the result as “great news for Lowestoft, for local business and the local community”.

“The Lowestoft Vision team have worked tirelessly to communicate the importance and influence the BID would have for the town. The yes vote tonight means that business will now be at the heart of economic development in the future.

“The town and county chamber has worked in partnership with the bid. Our members are experienced and hard working firms who have a great deal to give to the future of Lowestoft. It is exciting times ahead.”

Over the past few months key local businesses and organisations have joined forces to propose the creation of a Business Improvement District for the town centre, high street and parts of the Roman Hill ward, with a view to bringing positive ways of attracting new business, increasing retail and tourism footfall and ensuring that local authorities and their partners fulfil their obligations.

The team has pledged to fight the corner for business, improve cleanliness and security and begin actively marketing the town centre and high street as a destination for the first time.

Emma King, bid manager for the project said: “This is tremendous news for Lowestoft, its business and community. “A huge amount of work has gone into preparing the BID and canvassing local businesses and organisations and I would like to thank everyone involved for their support.”

Danny Steel, chairman of the Lowestoft High Street Traders Association and chairman of Lowestoft Vision said: “After months of planning and a great deal effort, the business community have recognised our efforts and see the positive changes that will emerge through the yes vote. The hard work now continues as we head towards August when we will publish a sustainable plan which will be a real positive force for improvement.”

Key businesses and organisations that backed the successful bid include Palmers & Godfrey’s department stores, the Britten Centre, Bushell’s Bakery, the Marina Theatre and Boots.