Tribunals · City of Westminster · 2017 rating list

Lower Ground Floor, Grimaldi House, SW1Y 4JH

Offices and premises Decided 20 June 2022 CHG100189442 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 sought a 37.5% reduction for material changes in circumstances caused by multiple construction works in the locality (Conway compound, 24-25 St James's Square refurbishment, 30 St James's Square demolition, and Norfolk House future reconstruction). The Valuation Officer allowed 20% reduction. The tribunal found that while the disturbances were severe and would impact the hypothetical tenant's bid, the evidence did not support the full 37.5% reduction. Applying weight to comparable cases (Hostsoho Limited v David Jackson at 25% for two sets of works) and considering the intensity and duration of the works, the tribunal allowed a 30% reduction, which it considered reasonable and well-supported by the evidence.

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

Grounds argued

  • Change of circumstances · decisive
Change of circumstances
construction works in locality; Conway compound; 24-25 St James's Square refurbishment; 30 St James's Square demolition and reconstruction; Norfolk House 31 St James's Square future demolition and reconstruction
Evidence
Photographs, Expert report
Cases cited
Gardiner & Theobald LLP v David Jackson (VO) [2018] UKUT 0253 (LC); Hostsoho Limited v David Jackson (VO) [2019] UKUT 0166; Berrill v Hill RA/34/99; Dawkins (VO) v Ash Brothers and Heaton Ltd [1969] 2 AC 336
Hearing
24 May 2022

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