A dispute has arisen over the Business Improvement District (BID) levy in Spalding, with a group of business owners refusing to pay the charge. The BID, which was created following a local vote in July 2024, aims to fund town centre improvements and increase foot traffic. However, some businesses argue the vote was flawed due to missing ballots and have vowed not to pay the levy.
The levy is calculated based on a business’s rateable value, meaning larger businesses contribute more. Despite the backlash, South Holland District Council has defended the process, asserting the vote was legally conducted and in line with national guidelines.
Small business owners, including photographer Julian Wheeler and beautician Macie Harman, are among those opposing the BID. While Wheeler has expressed his intent to challenge the legality of the vote, Harman has opted to pay the levy to avoid further costs, but still plans to fight the BID’s validity.
The council has maintained that the ballot and levy collection process were fair and properly managed, with strict oversight from an electoral services provider and the returning officer. Recovery actions have been handled in accordance with national regulations, with the council standing firm on the legitimacy of the levy.
 levy in Spalding, with a group of business owners refusing to pay the charge.){kind=link}