A Spalding-based group of business owners have strongly objected to contributing towards the townâs Business Improvement District (BID) levy, even in the face of potential legal repercussions. The Spalding BID was set up in the wake of a heated local business ballot which was narrowly won by a single vote in July 2024. Nonetheless, a number of traders are challenging the legitimacy of the vote, with allegations some businesses were not provided with ballot papers. The South Holland District Council contends that the vote was conducted appropriately.
The levy each business is required to pay is contingent upon a percentage of its taxable value, and larger businesses pay a higher amount. The aim of the BID is to utilise these collected funds to enhance the town centre and draw in more shoppers. Julian Wheeler, a photographer and the proprietor of Welland Photo Services, is among the small business owners who are opposing this levy. During a hearing at Boston Magistratesâ Court on 30 June, Wheeler, accompanied by 45 other non-payers, was deemed liable for the charge.
Wheeler is resolved to persist in his refusal to pay and plans to challenge the legality of the BID, citing alleged violations by the South Holland District Council. Simultaneously, beautician Macie Harman, who runs Macieâs Boo-tique, has chosen to pay the levy to sidestep added costs, whilst still maintaining dedication to campaigning against the BID. Harman has stated, âI wasnât given a ballot, so I donât believe itâs fair that I should have to contribute towards something I had no say in.â
A representative for South Holland District Council has expressed confidence in the BID ballot and levy systemâs integrity, accentuating their compliance with national guidelines and meticulous communication. The representative stressed that procedures were carried out with the same strictness seen in other elections, with supervision by the councilâs returning officer and adherence to national standards for levy collection.
This article was sourced from original reporting by www.bbc.com and adapted for The Lincoln Post.
