13 October 2025
A new petition before the Scottish Parliament is calling for stronger veto powers on Business Improvement District (BID) proposals to protect small, independent retailers from unfair levy structures.
The petition urges the Scottish Government to require local authorities to veto BID proposals where the levy charged to businesses is not proportional to their property’s rateable value, and to make Scottish Ministers consider this proportionality in all BID decisions.
Richie Chan/stock.adobe.com
Currently, BID ballots can be influenced by reduced levies offered to high-value properties, creating an imbalance that places a heavier financial burden on smaller businesses.
This petition seeks to close that loophole and ensure that all BID levies are set fairly and transparently — preventing smaller retailers from being priced out of their communities.
For independent retailers across Scotland, supporting this petition could be key to creating a more balanced and sustainable local trading environment.
You can see the petition and add your signature via the link below.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
Latest News
Read more-
Local businesses must have voice in Pride in Place spending decisions
Bira has called for local businesses to be given a say in how Pride in Place funding is spent, as the government announced an £800 million expansion of the community regeneration programme.
-
Independent retailers invited to celebrate Love Your High Street this Valentine's Day
Independent retailers across the UK are being urged to get creative this Valentine's Day as part of Bira's campaign to encourage shoppers to support their local high streets.
-
High streets funding welcome but business rates reform essential for lasting change
Bira has welcomed the government's £150 million investment in high streets but warned that the funding could be undermined without fundamental business rates reform.
-
Over half a million shoplifting offences highlight scale of retail crime crisis
Independent research warning that Labour faces electoral wipeout unless it addresses high street decline has vindicated warnings from retailers, Bira has said.