Leisure Sector Update: Stars Pubs Trading ltd v Gunmakers Arms [2026]

Welcome to the Harrison Drury Leisure Sector Newsletter. Your regular update on legal developments across the leisure, hospitality and tourism sector. Our aim is to keep you informed, prepared and ahead of the curve with insights tailored to support you and your business.

Star Pubs Trading Ltd v Gunmakers Arms [2026]

The recent decision in Star Pubs Trading Ltd v Gunmakers Arms (Essex) LLP concerned a landlord’s hostile notice under Section 25 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (the “Act”); namely, whether the landlord’s proposals were sufficient to satisfy ground (g) under Section 30(1) of the Act (“Ground (g)”).

Ground (g)

Ground (g) allows landlords to oppose the grant of a new tenancy on the basis that they intend to occupy the premises themselves, either through a business or residentially.

Where a landlord intends to occupy a premises for their own business purposes, they must be able to demonstrate a “firm and settled” intention to do so, requiring them to produce evidence of their plans.

In this blog, Property Litigation Legal Director, Luke Holden, looks at the case background and findings.

Click here to view the judgement.

We have a team of solicitors across a range of legal disciplines all with significant experience in supporting businesses in the leisure sector. Meet our leisure sector team to see how our team can help support you. If you wish to subscribe to our leisure newsletter, please do so here.