Tribunals · City of Westminster · 2017 rating list

Sixth Floor, Grimaldi House, SW1Y 4JH

Offices and premises Decided 20 June 2022 CHG100189432 Conneely Tribe - Austin Marshall

OutcomeAllowed in partThe tribunal reduced the rateable value, but by less than the ratepayer sought.
Original RV£55,500
Ratepayer sought—
VO conceded first—
Tribunal decided£39,000from 5 Dec 2017

Figures are as stated in the decision; a dash means the document does not state that figure. This decision covers 9 properties; the figures shown are for the first listed.

What was argued and what the tribunal found

The appellant, Grimaldi Agencies UK Limited, challenged the 2017 rating list valuations for nine floors of offices at St James's Square, arguing for a 37.5% reduction due to multiple material changes in circumstances comprising construction works at nearby properties (Conway Materials compound, 24-25 St James's Square, 30 St James's Square, and Norfolk House). The Valuation Officer had allowed a 20% reduction. The Tribunal found that while the construction works were severe and would impact the hypothetical tenant's bid, the evidence did not support the full 37.5% reduction sought. Considering comparable case law (particularly Hostsoho Limited) and the intensity and duration of the works, the Tribunal allowed a 30% reduction as reasonable, with effect from 5 December 2017.

Summary generated from the decision text and checked against it. The appellant was Grimaldi Agencies UK Limited, represented.

Grounds argued

  • Change of circumstances
Change of circumstances
construction works in the locality
Evidence
Expert report, Photographs
Cases cited
Hostsoho Limited v David Jackson (VO) [2019] UKUT 0166; Berrill v Hill RA/34/99; Dawkins (VO) v Ash Brothers and Heaton Limited [1969] 2 AC 336
Hearing
24 May 2022

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