News

Ballot on East Lothian Food & Drink future

March 1st, 2026

In the next few months, will conduct a ballot of eligible businesses in the county to decide whether we should continue for a third five year term, from August 2026 until the summer of 2031.

We are a type of body known as a Business Improvement District (BID), supported by the Scottish Government and created as a partnership between East Lothian Council and food and drink businesses throughout the county.

After a successful first five-year term beginning in August 2016, our remit was renewed for a second term, which comes to and end in August 2026.

To find out more, see ‘On to 2031’

Ballot dates

Ballot papers issued – June 25th 2026

Final date to return papers – August 20th 2026 at 5pm

Ballot papers counted and result announced – August 21st 2026

BID term begins if ballot returns ‘yes’ vote – August 22nd 2026

NB These dates were updated in May 2026.