Tribunals · Hertsmere Borough Council · 2017 rating list

Sky Studios Elstree, Rowley Lane, WD6 1FX

Film studios and premises Decided 7 October 2025 CHG101186426 GL Hearn Limited - Star 2017

OutcomeAllowed in partThe tribunal reduced the rateable value, but by less than the ratepayer sought.

Original RV£915,000

Ratepayer sought£555,000

VO conceded first£735,000−20% before the hearing

Tribunal decided£640,000from 20 Sept 2022

Figures are as stated in the decision; a dash means the document does not state that figure.

What was argued and what the tribunal found

The appellant (Sky UK Limited) argued that a 39.5% allowance should be applied to the rated value to reflect disturbances from ongoing major construction works at the film studios. The Tribunal found that whilst significant construction work would impact a hypothetical tenant's bid, a tapered approach was appropriate. For the first phase, the Tribunal determined that 30% allowance was fair and reasonable (compared to Sky's proposed 39.5% and the VO's 20%), resulting in an RV of £640,000, finding that approximately five to six months of construction lay ahead and considering the extensive documented disturbances including security, access issues, noise, dust, vibration, and loss of usable space.

Summary generated from the decision text and checked against it. The appellant was SKY UK LIMITED, represented.