In this episode, Richard and Lizzie unpack the High Court decision in Pridewell Properties (London) Ltd v Spirit Pub Co (Managed) London Ltd [2026] EWHC 953 (Ch), a case we are revisiting on redevelopment opposition under Ground (f) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

The dispute regards The Railway Bell, a 19th century pub in South Woodford, where the landlord sought possession to redevelop the site by building houses in the beer garden and converting upper floors into residential flats.

Although the court accepted the landlord genuinely intended to redevelop, the claim ultimately failed because the evidence on funding was not strong enough.

Richard explores:

• Why Ground (f) remains the most heavily litigated ground under the 1954 Act;

• What counts as a “firm and settled intention” to redevelop;

• Why proving funding is critical;

• The evidential hurdles landlords face when opposing lease renewals; and

• What this means for developers, investors, landlords and occupiers across the real estate market.

A must-listen for anyone involved in commercial property redevelopment, asset management or lease renewals.

Relevant cases: 

Bath Rugby Ltd v Greenwood & Ors v Bath Recreation Ltd [2021] 

[Hutchinson, Re 1 Captains (Lands Chamber) [2009]

MVL Properties Ltd v The Leadmill Ltd [2025]

Ministry of Sound Ltd v The British and Foreign Wharf Company Ltd [2025]