The boss of the Hampstead Business Improvement District (BID), which charges a controversial tax on businesses in the area, has said she will stand down.
Caroline Goldsack has been chief executive of Hampstead BID since it was formed after a referendum in 2016. She will step down at the end of December.
An email to businesses from Hampstead BID board member and owner of the Hampstead Butchers and Providore Philip Matthews said: "After two and a half years as the Hampstead BID manager, Caroline Goldsack is moving on to new challenges at the end of December."
The BID is seen as a potential way for businesses to act collectively in the area, and money collected through the tax can be spent on local improvements. It also runs the Hampstead Village Christmas Festival.
All businesses in Hampstead are obliged to pay the rates, despite only 111 of 243 eligible Hampstead enterprises taking part in the initial referendum behind setting it up.
Goldsack's announcement comes just over a fortnight since she said she wanted to build bridges with traders, after pub landlord Jimmy McGrath was taken to court by Camden Council for refusing to pay the levy.
The landlord at the King William IV pub on Hampstead High Street, owes just over £900 having refused to pay the fee for two years.
The 79-year-old is set to appear in court on November 15, after his original case was adjourned.
Hampstead Village Voice publisher, Sebastian Wocker said Hampstead BID should take the opportunity to think again.
"If the board of BID were to hold their hands up and say this has not worked, and lots of people are unhappy about it, that would be the ideal situation. Now is the perfect time for it to happen. There is plenty of CIL money for Christmas lights and flower beds," he said.
Caroline Goldsack has been approached for comment.
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