Ashby BID has admitted that court summons have been sent out to local businesses 'inadvertently'.

Some local businesses have reacted angrily to being asked to appear before Leicester Magistrates for the non-payment of the town's Business Improvement District levies.

But the BID has responded by saying it 'in no way wishes to see any businesses taken to court'.

The organisation collects a levy from the town's shops and companies which is designed to pay for projects and services.

Under the terms of the agreement, Ashby BID says all eligible businesses within its area have to pay and the levy is normally paid by the occupiers of a property.

However, Market Street hardware store, Ashby Toolbox, posted a copy of the summons on social media on Wednesday, which contained notice of a court appearance on September 20.

The post also received messages of support from other businesses nearby.

But the BID also says: 'Court proceedings dictate that businesses are unable to make a case regarding the BID performance'.

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The BID directors issued a statement to Ashby Nub News explaining the situation.

It reads: "Ashby BID would like to acknowledge that some businesses have inadvertently been sent a court summons for their BID levy invoice collected by North West Leicestershire District Council.

"Some payments have been logged incorrectly due to there being no facility to choose 'BID levy' upon payment.  

"However, this has been resolved online and you are able to put in your Levy Account number against any payment.

"Should you have any queries with your levy invoice, and you feel you have received a summons by mistake, please contact the revenues & benefits team on 01455 265450 - Option 3 or email   [email protected].

"We in no way wish to see any businesses taken to court and want to help if we can, if a business is in genuine hardship and you are unable to pay, please contact the BID team to discuss a payment plan.

"Court proceedings dictate that businesses are unable to make a case regarding the BID performance. The court will decide if the voting process has been carried out in accordance with the regulations and once that is established they will grant the liability order.

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"If you wish to discuss BID performance, share ideas, discuss improvements and help make Ashby a better place to live, work and visit, the BID team would be happy to help. Contact: Lisa on [email protected]

"Kind Regards Ashby BID Board of directors."

Ashby BID was formed two years ago following a vote among the town's businesses - with the prospect of generating £1million for the town.

On Tuesday, it was announced that the BID would be organising the December Christmas Fair in Market Street.