Last Orders for the Beer Garden? Pride well Properties v Spirit Pub Company

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] Get in touch! Training & Free Webinars for Property Professionals:Would you like to keep up to date with the latest in real estate law? Davitt Jones Bould offers legal training tailored to your organisation’s needs, delivered in person across the UK or remotely. We also run free monthly webinars through for surveyors, solicitors, and property professionals across sectors. To sign up or learn more, visit our events page here or email [email protected] for information and booking.  This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal or professional advice. No liability is accepted by Davitt Jones Bould for any reliance placed on its content. Get in touch!