Business lease renewal – ground (f) opposition – substantial works – intention (not motive) of landlord – timescale for carrying out the proposed works


S’Franses Ltd v The Cavendish Hotel (London) Ltd [2017] EWHC 1670 (QB) (3 July 2017)


This case has raised something of a stir in the sector. In essence a landlord, evidently desperate to obtain vacant possession of the holding formed an intention to carry out what might be termed unnecessary or uncommercial works with the sole motive of obtaining possession. The court had to consider both intention and motive and also the timescale within which the proposed works might be carried out. We highlight the case in brief, because although this was a second appeal, we understand that application has been made for permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal.