THERE is a growing rift between a section of traders and Alloa's business improvement district as the BID's renewal approaches.

Traders have voiced a variety of concerns over Alloa First and its proposals, questioning the value the organisation brings to its members.

Business were recently told of a sizeable planned increase to the fee they each have to pay, which is used to fund collective improvements in the town centre.

While Alloa First said the increase – the first in 15 years – will be "modest" and should amount to £1-a-week for those in the lowest rates.

However, independent traders have labelled the move as another bill they do not need.

Businesses recently banded together to launch a petition, with Steven Francis, who runs the gent's barbers Faded, collecting around 50 signatures.

Concerns have been raised over a lack of consultation, proposed rises to charges, a lack of communication and more.

Steven, who opened Faded last September but said has since been blocked from Alloa First social media, told the Advertiser: "I wasn't approached by them and my shop looks directly onto their office.

"The first bit of contact I ever had from them was a letter that says 'this is your final bill' [for the BID levy]."

Daphne Hamilton at The Wee Gallery on Candleriggs explained she was facing a 30 per cent increase in the BID levy under the renewal proposals.

She said: "As a person with a business within the BID area of Alloa I have not been consulted about the proposals in any meaningful way, or, indeed, had the opportunity to discuss renewal proposals and levy options with the BID proposers."

Daphne highlighted that 2007 regulations make clear that before renewal proposals can be submitted and for a ballot to take place, those eligible to vote must be consulted.

Concerns have also been echoed by Megan Edgar, owner of hair salon Weave This. and Donna McGregor, who runs a Primrose Street pub with husband Gary.

Megan said: "As a business who has been operating since early 2019, I have no clue or understanding what the Alloa BID actually brings to my business.

"It was brought to my attention that I have not been receiving any communication since 2019 until May this year.

"Somehow I have been missed off the mailing list but been paying a substantial amount yearly towards the levy.

"This is unacceptable."

Alloa First insists the renewal process is democratic and follows the regulations with ongoing consultation, even though some owners said they were told it is too late to change the proposals.

Hugh McMichael, chair of Alloa First, said: "We are incredibly proud of the positive work that Alloa First does and are focussed on a future where the BID plays an even greater part in supporting our town centre businesses.

"We operate an inclusive open-door policy where we encourage everyone to have their say.

"Our business plan for the next BID term has been drawn up in consultation with levy-payers and will be launched at an event for them on August 10, when full details will be shared."

He said with the raise, the BID is hoping to maintain and build upon ongoing activities in the face of rising costs while also introducing an improvements grants scheme for up to £500 match-funded work.

Businesses should feel free to call into the BID office to discuss proposals, he added.

Alloa First said consultation included a survey to all members along with some individual visits to businesses.

The renewal was also discussed at the April AGM.