Cupar votes to create the world’s first Digital Improvement District

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Businesses across Cupar have voted to create the world’s first Digital Improvement District.

Businesses in Cupar Fife have just voted in the UK’s first Digital Improvement District. This pilot project has been supported by Fife Council, The Scottish Government, Digital Scotland the Association of Businesses in Cupar District and Scotland’s Towns Partnership.

At this week’s count - of the businesses and organisations who cast their votes - more than 60% gave their support.

Cllr Altany Craik, Convener - Economy, Tourism. Strategic Planning & Transportation Committee, Fife Council, said: "I am pleased that businesses in Cupar have voted in support of the town becoming the UK’s first Digital Improvement District. This innovative pilot will showcase the value of digital connectivity to businesses, communities and individuals. Digital access is essential for Fife–based firms and residents to increase connectivity, boost business growth and drive competitiveness. With the scope now to look at how we support the digital economy through innovation in Cupar, the possibilities are great."

"We will continue to work hard with the business community and other partners to ensure this is a success. Fife’s town centres are a priority, and this follows significant investment and sympathetic regeneration of this beautiful market town."

The demonstration project had three core objectives: encouraging new strategic collaborations, increasing digital participation in the town as well as improving the digital skills of those engaged – all with an ambition to showcase how digital can be best deployed to support towns across the country.

Based on the established Business Improvement District model, it brings the local businesses together to co-Invest and collaborate on improvements for Cupar.

This project endeavours to build a common “Cupar Now” online presence, brand and identity, and this will allow businesses to communicate more effectively with customers and events and activities can be promoted more widely.

Cupar was chosen as the demonstration project as a result of the town’s involvement in the Digital Towns Programme 2017-18.

Cupar Digital Improvement District Ballot - declaration of result.

Contact:

Cllr. Altany Craik, Convener - Economy Tourism. Strategic Planning & Transportation Committee

T: : 03451 55 55 55 + Ext 441231

E: cllr.altany.craik@fife.gov.uk