A GROUP of business have voted to take hold of their future by agreeing to start a Business Improvement District which could help generate more than £750,000.

Firms on the Globe Park industrial estate to the east of Marlow voted on the proposal last month and it has now been announced they have given the plans the green light.

The move could generate about £760,000 of private sector-led investment to support sustainable transport initiatives, image enhancements, green schemes, security and communications.

A similar scheme exists in High Wycombe town centre, which has been responsible for public events, retail initiatives and lobbying the council over policy.

Leader of Wycombe District Council, Richard Scott, said: "Wycombe District Council is delighted that the businesses on Globe Park are taking control and creating a future that is in their own hands.

“We are keen to support all companies on the park with any opportunities that will boost both trading and employment.”

The Globe Park BID will officially start delivery on 1 January 2015.

A number of projects and services will be developed from the start, including the introduction of a Business Park Manager who will act as a single point of contact for businesses, image enhancements and sustainable transport improvements.

Jane Hough, BID Development Manager at Groundwork, said: "Groundwork is thrilled to support the BID and work with the businesses on Globe Park to manage the investment over the next five years. “The project has been a huge success and we are delighted that the businesses can now lead on the development of the business park."

Earlier this year, MP Dominic Grieve called for action over the sites to maximise Marlow's business potential, and WDC believes the town has a huge role to play in business given its connections to the motorway network.

Cllr Tony Green, WDC’s Cabinet member for Economic Development and Regeneration, recently spoke to the Marlow Free Press about the proposal.

He said: "Globe Park is a very important employment site for Marlow and the Wycombe district, due to its association with the Thames Valley, which is a real benefit, as well as its proximity to the strategic road network.

"While we recognise that creating a Business Improvement District will in itself not solve all the issues that need to be addressed, it will be a huge step forward and act as a catalyst for closer joint working in the future, enabling us to hear and act on the needs of businesses in and around Globe Park.”