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
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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.
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