Spalding physiotherapist calls for change to Business Improvement District legislation to help struggling firms

A physiotherapist who says that he cannot afford to pay a newly-imposed business levy is calling for a change in legislation to help firms spread out the cost.

Paul Parkin fears that he could be the first casualty of the Spalding Business District (BID) as there are no mechanisms to spread out the cost of the levy imposed on businesses across the town centre.

Mr Parkin feels that his business, Back on Track Therapy in Francis Street, should be exempt from the charge as it is a healthcare provider and is upset that his concerns have not be listened to as he has been ‘passed from pillar to post’.

The BID — which organisers promised could raise £1million over five years to help boost the fortunes of the town — was brought in as a result of a very narrow ballot last summer, with just one vote tipping the balance. Businesses pay a mandatory levy to fund its activities, regardless of how they voted.

Firms across the catchment area — including some residential areas such as Pennygate, Patriot Close and Cross Street — received their first bills in March which were backdated to September despite only back office work taking place.

Mr Parkin said: “I can’t afford to pay this so I might as well shut up shop. If they are trying to hound businesses out of the town then I am going to be the first casualty.

“I am funding my business out of my savings. I am not making a profit.

“They are being obstructive and have no empathy.”

Mr Parkin says that he is only working ten hours a week due to health concerns, including PTSD, and is using his savings to keep it going.

He says that the cost of the BID for the first six months is £69.70 with the threat of £82.50 court costs if he doesn’t pay up.

Mr Parkin has been trying to resolve the issue since March 5 when the first bill arrived - but without success.

He feels that no-one is listening to his concerns as he is passed between South Holland District Council staff and the BID - but never receives a response.

Mr Parkin has also shared his story with councillors along with BID board members to no avail.

He said: “The council promise to pass it to Spalding BID but no-one contacts me.

“I don’t feel anyone is listening to my concerns.

“They are passing me from pillar to post.

“There is nothing there to help spread the cost out. All I have had is a bill and a reminder.

“It needs more processes in place. I have asked for arbitration and to talk to people - they do nothing.

“I am in the middle of a circle and just goes round and round - it’s doing my head in.”

A spokesman for the council said: “The business in question is categorised as a shop and premises at the Valuation Office Agency, which is publicly available information, which is included in the list of liable premises in the BID proposal that was voted on.

“The additional administration and processing costs incurred through an instalment-based method mean it is not a feasible approach for the level of payment involved in the BID process. It would also impact the BID’s access to funds throughout the year, which may limit its ability to undertake activities and initiatives.

“Where recovery action is taken due to non-payment of the BID Levy any court costs would be charged to the BID company until these are recovered and reimbursed.”

What do you think? Let us know your views in the comments below…