‘Back the BID’ call – and help save St Andrews’ Hoolie
Businesses in St Andrews have been urged to back the town’s BID - and help secure the future of key events such as the St Andrew’s Day Hoolie.
It was one of the flagship events organised by the Business Improvement District (BID) which is seeking renewal in a ballot of town centre businesses.
Eligible businesses – those with a rateable value of more than £12,000 – have until 5:00pm on Thursday, July 30 to cast their vote. If successful, the BID said it will generate more than £1.1 million to invest in the town over the next five years.
And a yes result will help to secure the future of major events that attract thousands of visitors each year.
Launched in 2017, The Hoolie has become one of the town's most popular community events. Held on the Saturday closest to St Andrew's Day, it begins with a bustling community market before moving into an afternoon and evening of live music from local performers, a giant street ceilidh on South Street, a torchlit procession to West Sands and a spectacular fireworks display.
Last year, organisers introduced a Changing Places toilet and a dedicated quiet space at the St Andrews Baptist Church on South Street, ensuring more people could take part in the celebrations - and over 10,000 people.
Mandy Martin, general manager, St Andrews Brewing Company, located on South Street said, “The Hoolie gives us a fantastic boost during what is traditionally a quieter time of year, when many people are saving for Christmas.
“The pub is busy throughout the day with the market and then again during the ceilidh before the torchlight procession heads down to the beach. It creates a brilliant atmosphere and brings people right down to this end of South Street, which can sometimes be slightly outside the main flow of visitors.”
If renewed, the BID will deliver a five-year programme of projects to strengthen the town centre and support local businesses. Priorities include expanding the successful clean and green team, continuing winter events, launching new health and wellbeing initiatives to position St Andrews as a year-round destination, improving signage and wayfinding, providing business support and training, and refreshing the town’s festive lights.
Debbie MacCallum, honorary chair, BID St Andrews, said, “This year, we want The Hoolie to be bigger and better than ever, giving thousands of local residents, students and visitors a St Andrew's Day celebration to remember.
"Every year, we hear of the tangible benefits The Hoolie generates for businesses across the town.
“Hotels, restaurants, shops, cafés and bars all report increases in footfall and income, with the event shining a light on our brilliant and diverse community. And our townsfolk and visitors absolutely love it! We've already had people getting in touch who plan to travel to St Andrews specifically for this year’s event.
“But The Hoolie is just part of what we do. Over the last five years, the £1.1 million generated has supported a wide range of initiatives that have helped enhance and promote this beautiful town. Without the BID, many of these projects and improvements – including The Hoolie – simply would not happen. By voting 'Yes', businesses can help us build on everything we've achieved together, continue investing in the town centre and secure a bright future for St Andrews."
The renewed BID will also help businesses maximise the opportunities presented by The Open Championship, which returns to St Andrews from 11–18 July 2027, ensuring the town is well positioned to benefit before, during and after the event.
Businesses that have not received their ballot paper or BID Business Plan, or require assistance with voting, are encouraged to contact the BID team.