Category: Kinney Green

Take a moment to review our Rating brochure, which explains the business rates appeal process, including the key stages of Check, Challenge, and Appeal.

Understanding this process can be complex, particularly for property owners and occupiers who are unfamiliar with how business rates valuations work. The system requires careful attention to detail, accurate property information, and a structured approach to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our brochure provides a clear overview of each stage. It explains how to check your property details, identify potential inaccuracies, and challenge your valuation where appropriate. If needed, it also outlines how to progress to a formal appeal. This guidance can help you avoid common mistakes and approach the process with greater confidence.

Many businesses miss opportunities to reduce their rates or experience delays because they do not fully understand the requirements at each stage. Having access to clear and practical information can make a significant difference when reviewing your position.

The brochure also highlights key timelines, responsibilities, and considerations that may arise during a case. Whether you are preparing to submit a challenge or simply reviewing your current assessment, it is important to understand your options and obligations.

By taking the time to understand the process, you can make more informed decisions and ensure that your property is assessed fairly. Our guide offers straightforward advice to help you navigate the business rates appeal process more effectively.

Click here to learn more about the business rates appeal process and download the brochure.

Are serviced offices set to dominate the London occupational market?

It is the topic of conversation among West End and City office agents: are they embracing change?

The growth of London serviced offices has become a hot topic. Over recent years, the sector has expanded rapidly. It has evolved from a market once dominated by start-ups needing little more than a postal address to a mature, thriving industry. Today, the UK leads the global serviced office market. London serviced offices account for 34% of the UK footprint and have grown 31% since 2008.

For the first half of 2017, the sector accounted for 9% of take-up in the City and 8% in the West End. Tenants are increasingly willing to pay the ‘premium’ rents associated with serviced offices. In return, they gain greater flexibility and the advantages of fixed costs without the risks of a conventional lease.

Flexibility and minimal start-up costs are key factors, especially for smaller occupiers. But these are not the only reasons for growth. Larger occupiers are also attracted to co-working and serviced offices. These spaces offer opportunities to collaborate with creative companies and access a growing talent pool.

We do not view the sector as a threat. On the contrary, its fluidity and flexibility complement the traditional leasing model. This gives tenant clients more choice. We have embraced the sector and are assisting major operators with ambitious growth plans.

Recently, we advised Prospect Business Centres on acquiring approximately 17,000 sq ft at 20 Midtown on Proctor Street, WC1. Prospect identified Midtown as an area of interest. After finding 20 Midtown as an ideal building, we negotiated terms on their behalf. They will soon open their first Midtown centre.

Some landlords worry about covenant strength. Most operators take leases in a special purpose vehicle (SPV) with additional surety, often a limited parent company guarantee. Long gone are the days of Ouvagh Highfield and Southern Cross. Operator failures are rare today.

Operators are increasingly willing to sign long-term leases. In fact, most prefer a minimum term of ten years. The message is clear: whether acting for landlords or tenants, larger firms and corporates must adapt to the ever-changing occupational office market.

Kinney Green has been appointed by National Grid to support the London Power Tunnels Project, Phase 2. The firm will identify and acquire land in South London, between Wimbledon and New Cross. As a result, the project will create a new electricity superhighway deep beneath the capital. It will increase capacity to meet London’s growing electricity demand.

The development requires tunnel drive sites, intermediate shafts, and head houses at key points along the route. These facilities ensure safety during construction. They also provide access for maintenance and store ventilation equipment. Kinney Green’s expertise in the London market allows them to advise on physical and viability constraints. Consequently, each site meets operational needs effectively.

In addition to land acquisition, Kinney Green identifies off-market opportunities for site assembly. This means that National Grid can secure strategic parcels efficiently. Moreover, by leveraging local knowledge and market insight, Kinney Green helps manage project risk and supports timely delivery of the London Power Tunnels Project.

Phase 2 highlights the growing complexity of London infrastructure. Furthermore, it will improve energy capacity, support new development, and strengthen the capital’s electricity supply. Kinney Green’s role shows how specialised real estate advice makes large technical projects feasible. In particular, they navigate regulatory and logistical challenges effectively.

By combining market knowledge, technical insight, and practical experience, Kinney Green delivers tailored solutions for high-stakes development projects. Therefore, their involvement ensures key sites are identified, acquired, and prepared efficiently. This contributes to one of London’s most ambitious infrastructure programmes: the London Power Tunnels.

Kinney Green is pleased to announce that former Senior Partner Nick Eden has been awarded a Regent’s University Fellowship.

This Nick Eden Regent’s University Fellowship recognises his long-standing contribution to property consultancy services delivered to the University over a number of years. During this time, he has provided strategic advice and supported a wide range of property-related projects.

Nick Eden has developed a strong relationship with Regent’s University through his consistent and professional approach. In addition, his expertise has supported the effective management of the University’s property interests while helping to shape long-term planning decisions. As a result, this recognition highlights both his technical knowledge and his commitment to delivering high-quality consultancy services.

Furthermore, the award reflects the importance of collaboration between Kinney Green and Regent’s University. The University remains a valued client, and the firm continues to provide ongoing property advice and support across its estate. This long-standing partnership demonstrates trust, reliability, and shared success.

Kinney Green has extensive experience in the education sector and works with a range of institutions across the UK. The firm provides tailored property consultancy services that support both day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning. Its expertise ensures that clients can manage and develop their property assets effectively.

Overall, this fellowship highlights both individual achievement and the strength of the relationship between Kinney Green and Regent’s University. The firm looks forward to continuing its work with the University in the years ahead.

Deciding between a lease renewal or relocation can be a complex choice for any business. Each option comes with its own advantages, and selecting the right direction depends on your organisation’s current needs and future plans.

To make this decision easier, Kinney Green has created a simple and engaging visual guide inspired by the London Underground map. This “KG Tube Map” is designed to help clients navigate the key considerations involved in choosing between staying in their existing space or moving to a new location.

The map breaks down important decision points into clear “stops,” allowing businesses to assess factors such as cost, flexibility, space requirements, and long-term strategy. As a result, the lease renewal or relocation process becomes easier to understand and more accessible for decision-makers.

In addition, the guide highlights the practical implications of each route. For example, renewing a lease may offer stability and reduced upfront costs, while relocation can provide opportunities for growth, improved facilities, or a better location. By setting out these options visually, the map helps businesses compare outcomes more effectively.

To ensure the guide was both useful and engaging, Kinney Green distributed the Tube Map to clients in a printed format, delivered directly by post. This approach reflects the firm’s commitment to providing clear, practical advice in a format that is easy to use and understand.

Ultimately, choosing between a lease renewal or relocation is not always straightforward. However, with the right guidance and a structured approach, businesses can make informed decisions that support their long-term objectives.

Kinney Green advised Firezza on the acquisition of their first specific A3 restaurant in prime Soho. The Kinney Green Firezza Soho deal marks an important step as the brand expands its presence in central London. The move also strengthens its footprint in high-profile trading locations.

The 2,500 sq ft restaurant on Dean Street now trades and introduces a new venture for the long-established client. The site attracts strong footfall and benefits from excellent visibility. Soho’s vibrant dining scene made it a strategic choice for Firezza’s continued growth. The location supports both dine-in customers and delivery demand.

Firezza, purchased in 2016 by Pizza Express, continues to evolve its estate across London. Kinney Green has supported the brand on multiple acquisitions throughout Greater London. The team provided advice on site selection, negotiations and market positioning. This latest Soho opportunity builds on that long-standing relationship.

The Dean Street restaurant allows Firezza to engage with a diverse customer base. Office workers, residents and visitors all contribute to steady demand. The area remains one of London’s most dynamic food and beverage districts. This environment suits Firezza’s offering and growth ambitions.

Kinney Green continues to advise operators on restaurant acquisitions across London. The firm supports clients with strategic expansion plans. It also helps identify locations that deliver long-term value. The Soho acquisition demonstrates continued confidence in central London hospitality.

We wish the company continued success with their new Soho restaurant.

The Newbigin v Monk ruling delivered by the Supreme Court overturned an earlier Court of Appeal judgement. The decision favoured the ratepayer and created a landmark outcome for buildings undergoing extensive refurbishment and redevelopment.

The long-running case concluded with the Supreme Court supporting Monk, whose property in Sunderland underwent significant redevelopment works. Contractors stripped out the building and removed services and internal fit-out. During the works, Monk submitted an appeal to reduce the Rateable Value to £1. The appeal argued that the property did not allow beneficial occupation on the Material Day.

The Valuation Office Agency argued that the property should reflect what a hypothetical tenant would pay a landlord. Their approach relied on assumptions about use and condition. One key assumption stated that the property remained in a reasonable state of repair unless repairs proved uneconomic. The Valuation Office maintained that reinstatement would remain economic on the Material Day.

Based on that position, the Valuation Office valued the property as if occupation could take place. This approach produced a Rateable Value of £102,000 despite the ongoing redevelopment works.

The Supreme Court rejected that argument. The judges stated that the valuation must reflect the rating hypothesis known as the presumption of reality. They confirmed that the property genuinely underwent redevelopment. As a result, the assessment needed to consider whether beneficial occupation could occur before any assumption about repair.

The court concluded that properties incapable of beneficial occupation should receive a nominal Rateable Value. This interpretation provides clarity for owners undertaking major refurbishment projects.

The Newbigin v Monk ruling affects a large number of outstanding appeals. Many cases now require reassessment using the same principles. However, uncertainty remains about how the Valuation Office Agency will address the backlog. A cautious or phased approach may follow as further guidance emerges.

Kinney Green rent review London specialists have successfully concluded negotiations on behalf of Kucher & Partners at 1 Plough Place in London’s Mid-Town market. The outcome followed detailed market analysis and complex discussions with the landlord, demonstrating the value of expert Kinney Green rent review London advice.

Neil Warwick, who leads the Kinney Green Mid-Town Agency Department, originally acquired the space for Kucher & Partners in 2011. The firm remains a long-standing client of Kinney Green. This existing relationship allowed the team to provide consistent advice and continuity throughout the rent review process. The team also drew on historic knowledge of the building and previous negotiations.

The area surrounding 1 Plough Place has changed significantly in recent years. The adjacent New Street Square development transformed the local environment, and the completion of New Fetter Place increased competition for office space. Strong market movement across the Holborn area added further pressure. These factors made the rent review particularly challenging and required careful analysis of comparable evidence.

The landlord initially served notice at £542,000 per annum, representing a proposed increase of 40 percent. Kinney Green carried out detailed analysis of market transactions across the Mid-Town area and reviewed the lease provisions in detail. This approach allowed them to challenge assumptions used to support the higher figure, showcasing the expertise of Kinney Green rent review London specialists.

Following negotiations, the parties agreed a rent of £483,000 per annum. This outcome delivered a significant saving for Kucher & Partners, representing an overall saving of £295,000 over the next five years. The result highlights the importance of working with specialists experienced in complex rent review negotiations.

Mark Billige, Managing Partner at Kucher & Partners, praised the long-standing relationship with Neil Warwick and the Kinney Green team. He also highlighted their knowledge of the local market and practical support throughout the process.

Kinney Green continues to advise occupiers and landlords on rent reviews across London. The team supports clients with strategic negotiations, market intelligence, and lease advice. For upcoming rent reviews or landlord and tenant matters, contact the Kinney Green professional team for expert guidance.

Kinney Green Clean City awards success continued in 2016. The management team secured two Gold awards at the Clean City Award Scheme. This marks the second consecutive year they have achieved this recognition. The awards highlight the firm’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management in the City of London.

The Clean City Award Scheme was established in 1994. Its main goal is to develop partnerships with businesses in the City and promote responsible waste management. The scheme recognises buildings that actively manage their waste, adopt sustainable practices, and show ongoing improvement in environmental performance.

To achieve the Gold award, a building must demonstrate continuous efforts to reduce and manage waste. Buildings must implement recycling initiatives, minimise landfill contributions, and maintain sustainable procedures. Kinney Green’s management team successfully met these criteria. This reflects the firm’s dedication to operational excellence and environmental responsibility.

John Nguyen, a key member of the management team, said: “We are proud to continue setting high standards for waste management. Winning the Gold award for a second year demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and best practice in the City.”

The recognition provides a benchmark for other buildings. Kinney Green encourages owners and managers to adopt similar initiatives. These steps help achieve high standards and comply with industry best practices.

For managers looking to improve sustainability or compete in future Clean City Awards, contact John Nguyen at the Kinney Green Management Team. The team offers advice on waste reduction, recycling strategies, and sustainable property management.

Kinney Green partner promotion news highlights key leadership developments. Firstly, the firm is delighted to announce that Chris Jakes has been promoted to Partner. Henry Brewster has also been promoted to Associate Partner. These promotions recognise their contributions to the West End Agency and Professional Services teams. Therefore, the Kinney Green partner promotion demonstrates the firm’s commitment to recognising talent and leadership excellence.

Chris Jakes has played a central role in expanding the firm’s West End Agency operations. As a result, his leadership has helped secure major client assignments and drive strategic growth. Henry Brewster has contributed significantly to the Professional Services division. Additionally, he has supported both clients and internal initiatives that strengthen the firm’s overall service offering.

The promotions reflect the firm’s ongoing investment in staff and leadership. Both Chris and Henry have demonstrated consistent excellence, contributing to client success and the firm’s broader objectives. Their work has reinforced Kinney Green’s reputation in the London property market. Moreover, this Kinney Green partner promotion ensures leadership remains strong and prepared for future expansion.

Clients and colleagues have praised the promotions. In particular, the move recognises individual performance, teamwork, client service, and strategic growth. Kinney Green sees these appointments as a key step in maintaining high standards and supporting future business development.

Both Chris and Henry will now take on additional mentoring responsibilities. For example, they will guide junior staff, lead key client projects, and help develop internal training programmes. Furthermore, their promotion allows them to contribute to firm-wide initiatives, including service innovation, operational improvement, and client engagement. This ensures that Kinney Green’s leadership structure remains strong and client satisfaction continues.

Finally, the firm emphasises that recognising talent is critical to long-term success. By promoting key team members, Kinney Green ensures continuity in service quality and leadership excellence. For further information on the West End Agency, Professional Services, or the leadership team, please contact the firm’s office directly.

The Kinney Green professional team has successfully concluded rent review negotiations on behalf of the Grosvenor Hotel at 92 Park Lane, Mayfair. As a result, the final agreement delivers a 110% rental increase. This increase will generate an additional £600,000 income for the hotel over the next five years. Moreover, the outcome demonstrates Kinney Green’s expertise in achieving substantial results for high-profile clients.

The property is tenanted by Foxtons Estate Agent. During negotiations, the team analysed market data, comparable rents, and lease terms to secure the best possible outcome. Furthermore, the Kinney Green rent review Mayfair team worked closely with both the hotel and the tenant to ensure a smooth process and a mutually agreeable solution.

This result highlights the value of specialist advice for properties in prime locations. In particular, Park Lane continues to experience strong demand, making professional guidance essential to achieving maximum rental value. Therefore, clients benefit from Kinney Green’s deep knowledge of the Mayfair market and extensive experience in complex lease negotiations.

Additionally, the team considered factors such as market trends, tenant turnover, and property condition. This comprehensive approach ensured that the rent review reflected both current market conditions and the long-term value of the property. As a result, the hotel secured an outcome that exceeds expectations.

Should you have an upcoming rent review or wish to discuss landlord or tenant matters, Kinney Green can provide expert guidance. The professional team offers detailed market insight, strategic advice, and support at every stage of the lease negotiation process. Finally, this achievement reinforces Kinney Green’s reputation for delivering results in London’s competitive property market.

The team continues to assist landlords and tenants across the city, ensuring outcomes that reflect both market conditions and client objectives. Overall, this case exemplifies the benefits of working with a specialist team for high-value commercial property negotiations.

As you may be aware, the Rating Revaluation 2017 draft list is published today, detailing the new rateable values that will apply to assessed properties from 1st April 2017. These values are based on rental levels reflecting the rating hypothesis the Valuation Office considered applicable at 1st April 2015. Therefore, property owners should review the draft list carefully.

We recommend, in the first instance, that we check your new valuation against your current one. If you haven’t already, please let us know so we can assist. This ensures you understand any potential changes to your liability and plan accordingly.

The last revaluation took place in 2010, and the 2017 Revaluation was delayed for two years by the Government. Currently, the highest increases are anticipated in London. While Transitional Relief (TR) will be reintroduced to limit immediate increases, larger companies with an RV over £100,000 will receive less relief. Additionally, uncertainty remains over whether the rate poundage will continue to rise in line with inflation.

Rate demands to establish your new liability will be issued in March 2017. However, until then, we can review your current liability from 2010. If TR is reintroduced and your liability is reduced, there may be a knock-on benefit for several years.

We also must adopt the Valuation Office’s new mantra: “check, challenge, appeal.” This system is protracted, costly, and complex. Furthermore, over 300,000 outstanding appeals remain unresolved before the VO can even fully consider the 1.96 million new assessments.

Finally, be cautious of false promises. While the VO can reduce assessments, they also have the power to increase them. Therefore, working with experienced advisors ensures that any appeal or challenge is carefully managed and maximises potential benefits.

Kinney Green’s Professional Department has been instructed to advise on three retail rent reviews on City Road, EC1. These City Road retail rent reviews highlight the firm’s expertise in handling commercial property matters in busy urban locations.

The three units are all in the Lexington Building. It is close to Old Street Roundabout, also called Silicon Roundabout because of its popularity with web and mobile app companies. Moreover, the area is experiencing significant regeneration. The White Collar Factory by Derwent London and The Bower by Helical Bar are both under construction.

The units are tenanted by Subway, Café Nero, and Abokado. During negotiations, Kinney Green will review market rents, lease terms, and nearby comparable properties. Furthermore, the team will work with both tenants and landlords to reach fair and efficient agreements.

This set of rent reviews shows the importance of specialist advice in fast-changing locations. In particular, City Road’s regeneration is increasing demand for quality retail space. As a result, expert guidance ensures that rental values reflect current market conditions.

Kinney Green’s approach includes market research, financial modelling, and strategic negotiation. Additionally, the team advises on lease clauses, tenant improvements, and potential future rent reviews. Ultimately, this approach helps both landlords and tenants achieve long-term benefits.

For more information on City Road retail rent reviews or upcoming London rent reviews, please contact the Kinney Green Professional Department. The team provides tailored guidance to support landlords and tenants across the capital.

We are delighted to announce that Kinney Green has been instructed to advise the landlord of 77-95 Victoria Street, SW1, on the June 2016 rent review. This Victoria Street SW1 rent review covers approximately 43,200 sq.ft of office space. The space is arranged from the basement to the seventh floor.

77-95 Victoria Street is an eight-storey office and retail building. It totals 53,000 sq.ft and was constructed in the 19th century. The building occupies a prominent corner on the south side of Victoria Street. It is located at the junction with Parliament Square. As a result, the property benefits from excellent visibility and easy access to key transport links.

The rent review will assess current market rents and lease provisions. During the process, Kinney Green will review comparable office and retail properties nearby. Furthermore, the team will provide strategic advice to the landlord. This ensures that the rental outcome reflects market conditions and the building’s prime location.

This assignment highlights the importance of specialist advice for high-value properties in central London. In particular, the proximity to Parliament Square and major commercial hubs makes accurate valuation essential. As a result, careful analysis protects both landlord and tenant interests.

Kinney Green’s approach includes detailed market research, lease analysis, and negotiation strategy. Additionally, the team evaluates tenant profiles, lease terms, and possible building improvements. Ultimately, this helps secure fair rent and supports long-term rental growth.

For more information on the Victoria Street SW1 rent review or any upcoming London rent reviews, please contact the Kinney Green professional team. They provide expert guidance on office and retail property matters across the capital.

We are pleased to welcome Luc Griffiths to the Kinney Green professional team. His arrival strengthens the firm’s expertise in property advisory and client services. As a result, the professional team is even better positioned to support landlords, tenants, and investors across London.

Luc recently completed an MSc in Real Estate Management at the University of the West of England, Bristol. Prior to that, he studied BSc Geography & Planning at Cardiff University. This educational background gives him a strong foundation in both property management and urban planning principles.

Luc says, “I am tremendously excited to join a fantastic team here at Kinney Green. I am also looking forward to embarking on the APC process in the coming weeks.” Furthermore, his enthusiasm reflects the firm’s focus on developing talent and supporting professional growth.

The addition of Luc to the Kinney Green professional team demonstrates the firm’s ongoing investment in staff and expertise. In particular, his academic qualifications and fresh perspective will contribute to both client projects and internal initiatives. As a result, the team is better equipped to provide detailed market analysis, strategic advice, and practical solutions across the property sector.

Kinney Green takes pride in nurturing emerging talent. Additionally, Luc will gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced professionals, helping him develop skills that directly benefit clients. Ultimately, this ensures that the professional team continues to deliver high-quality advice and service.

For more information about the Kinney Green professional team or to discuss property matters in London, please contact the firm directly. The team offers tailored guidance on real estate transactions, valuations, and strategic property advice.