On the Case: The return of S Franses and the pandemic impact on West End rents

In a sequel to one of the most significant property law decisions of recent years - the Supreme Court judgment on lease renewal in S Franses Ltd v The Cavendish Hotel (London) Ltd [2018] UKSC 62; [2019] EGLR 4 - Central London County Court has ruled on the terms of the tenant's new lease.

Joanne Wicks QC, barrister at Wilberforce Chambers, and solicitor David Cooper, of David Cooper & Co, who acted for the claimant tenant, textile dealership S Franses, explain the court's decision and how it reflects the impact of Covid-19 on rent levels in the West End.

Wicks and Cooper discuss the implications of the latest ruling for landlords and tenants going forward - and reflect on the lasting impact of the Supreme Court decision on lease renewal oppositions under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.