Firms in Barrhead have questioned the “impact” of payments they are being “forced” to pay to support the local business improvement district (BID).

A BID, which is created through a vote of local businesses, is a part of a town such as a commercial district in which businesses invest collectively in local improvements.

Once established, it operates for up to five years and is paid for by businesses through a compulsory BID charge.

A petition against the All About Barrhead BID levy has garnered 52 signatures from the owners of more than 30 businesses in the town.


Jill Loney, the owner of salon Jilly & Friends on Cross Arthurlie Street, told the Barrhead News: “When I took on the lease of this shop, we started getting presented with letters about this thing called the BID levy, which we have all to pay.

“I have never paid it because I don't feel that from being here for three years, I have ever seen an ounce of change in the town.

“There hasn't been any direct change to my business and after speaking to other business owners, they all feel the same.

“We want accountability, and we want to know where the money has been going for the last five years.”


Specifically, the petition demands “a detailed accounting of how BID funds are allocated and spent” and says the current lack of information regarding the exact use of payments raises concerns about the effectiveness and impact on local businesses.

It also calls for a mandatory meeting for all local businesses to be able to discuss the BID levy and its financial implications and for this meeting to provide a detailed breakdown of the annual books for the last five years, allowing businesses “to assess the effectiveness of the BID initiatives”.

The petition was launched at the end of last month after sheriff officers reportedly turned up at 18 premises during working hours “demanding the payment,” an experience which Jill describes as “humiliating”.

“One of my customers had an anxiety attack because she felt so intimidated,” she said. “I can’t have that.”

“I'm not saying I'm not going to pay it, but my thing is I want to know what I'm paying for and I want to know where the growth is going to happen.

“I love this community and last year we gave out 100 free haircuts, we went up to St Luke’s and gave workshops to get people interested in the world of hair.

“I’ve just given £250 to Nelly Boxes for Christmas gifts for children in Barrhead, so it’s not as if I don’t like to put into the community, I just like to know where the money is actually going.”


Another of those speaking out is Jacqui Cooney, the owner of Beautiform Medical Aesthetics Clinic on Carlibar Road.

“I was not a business in the area when the BID came into play and I disagree with it because I did not vote it in,” she said.

“There is a lack of transparency as to who decides where the money goes and anything I've suggested has not been taken on board.

“It's just events for children that get put on. Yes, it's all about footfall in the area, but that's not directly affecting businesses. That's just in the hope that it affects businesses.

“There is no data to say whether it's actually improved the businesses or not and there is no tangible evidence to say that this actually works.

“Also how are we improving businesses if we are sending sheriff officers to them to collect money to give them a crime record which would make them potentially unable to get a business loan, a lease or anything like that. It’s bully-boy tactics."

A BID spokesperson said: "The BID follows a business plan, and the Scottish Government directive, that focuses on benefiting the broader community.

"The majority of our larger events do indeed target families, as they are a core demographic in Barrhead.

"Our data over the years shows a strong footfall increase during these events, supporting local businesses.

"While we cannot directly guide visitors into specific shops, businesses that actively participate in these events are more likely to benefit.

"We understand that businesses like service providers, B2B companies, and others that don’t rely directly on footfall may see less immediate impact from our events.

"However, the BID’s mission extends beyond direct customer visits.

"By investing in the town and fostering a positive community image, we aim to create a business environment that benefits all types of businesses indirectly.

"When Barrhead thrives as a desirable place to live, visit, and work, the whole local economy becomes more resilient and appealing for partnerships, collaborations, talent acquisition and even attracting new businesses to the area.

"Operational and financial decisions are directed by our Board of Directors, representing various sectors of the business community and local stakeholders.

"We send regular updates, request input, and invite feedback from BID members. Despite recent low engagement on member surveys and meeting invitations, our commitment to transparency remains strong.

"The annual business plan, shared with all members, outlines our spending and goals. Detailed breakdowns of any specific project are available upon request, and we plan to hold an open AGM in January to address any member questions.

"Levy payment, which is legally mandated following the BID’s establishment by ballot (both in 2016 and then again in 2021), is managed by East Renfrewshire Council under Scottish Government guidelines.

"Upon being issued with an invoice, businesses have the opportunity to pay this in full, or enter a payment plan. In cases of non-payment, multiple reminders are sent before any action is escalated to sheriff officers.

"This process involves various steps—initial reminders, letters from Walker Love, and finally, sheriff officer visits—before a bank arrestment may occur. 

"As the BID, our goal is to avoid this route whenever possible, working with businesses to understand their concerns.

"Our Board and management team are dedicated to enhancing Barrhead, keeping the high street alive, and attracting footfall.

"We appreciate any feedback our members have and look forward to an open forum in the new year where members can discuss their ideas and ask questions directly."

An East Renfrewshire Council spokesperson said: "All businesses within a BID area are legally obliged to pay the levy. As with other local authorities, BIDs are independent organisations to the council. We provide for the administration, collection, recovery and application of the BID levy. In line with our standard procedures, any outstanding debts are passed to sheriff officers."