Fire safety advice for licenced premises during the FIFA World Cup

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging licenced premises to review and update their fire risk assessments before making any changes to their premises during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Changes such as installing large screens and temporary structures, additional seating, flags and decorations, and altered venue layouts may create additional fire safety risks if not properly assessed and managed.

Temporary alterations can affect occupancy levels, escape routes, evacuation procedures and access to firefighting equipment. The Responsible Person must ensure that fire safety remains a key consideration throughout the planning and delivery of tournament-related events.

Businesses are advised to:

• Review and update fire risk assessments to reflect any temporary changes.
• Ensure all emergency exits, escape routes and fire doors remain serviceable unobstructed and available for immediate use.
• Avoid positioning screens, furniture, staging or temporary structures where they could hinder evacuation.
• Check that temporary electrical installations are safe, suitable and do not overload existing electrical systems.
• Use appropriate fire-retardant materials for decorations and displays.
• Review occupancy levels and implement suitable crowd management measures.
• Ensure staff are fully trained and understand emergency procedures and their roles in the event of an evacuation.
• Maintain clear access to firefighting equipment and fire alarm call points.

Please be aware that Fire Safety Officers and operational crews may carry out inspections before and during the tournament period to ensure compliance with fire safety legislation and to provide advice where required.

I would ask that you share this with your membership to ensure that any Responsible Persons are aware of this guidance. If you have any concerns, please email firesafety@westsussex.gov.uk.

The Move Away from Upwards-Only Rent Reviews: What It Means for Commercial Property

For many years, upwards-only rent review clauses have been a cornerstone of commercial leases in England and Wales.

They have provided landlords, investors and lenders with a dependable level of certainty: rent could rise at review but never fall.

That long-standing position is now under review.

Recent legislative developments indicate a clear shift in government policy, with proposals to prevent the use of upwards-only rent review mechanisms in commercial leases.

What Are Upwards-Only Rent Reviews?

An upwards-only rent review is a lease provision which allows rent to increase or remain unchanged at review but not decrease - even where market conditions have softened.

From a landlord’s perspective, this has traditionally supported predictable rental income and stable investment valuations.

However, tenants have often viewed these clauses as inflexible, particularly during economic downturns when market rents may decline.

In such circumstances, businesses can find themselves tied to rents above current market levels.

There is also a wider commercial impact, as these provisions can make assignment or subletting more difficult, especially where incoming tenants are unwilling to take on above-market rental commitments.

Proposed Legislative Reform

The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 (https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2026/23/enacted)  introduces measures intended to restrict the use of upwards-only rent review clauses in commercial leases.

Although the relevant provisions are not yet in force, the direction of travel is clear.

Under the proposed framework:

• Upwards-only rent review provisions in new and renewal business tenancies will be ineffective once the legislation is implemented
• The rules will apply broadly to leases capable of falling within the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, including those contracted out
• Rent review provisions must allow for both increases and decreases, ensuring rents more accurately reflect market conditions

Certain rent structures will remain unaffected. For example:

• Stepped rents and fixed increases, where rent levels are agreed at the outset
• Index-linked rents, provided they allow for downward movement as well as increases

The legislation is also expected to include measures preventing parties from avoiding the new rules through drafting techniques or superior lease structures.

Timing And Areas Of Uncertainty

At present, the reforms have not yet come into force, and no firm commencement date has been confirmed. Early indications suggest implementation is unlikely before 2027, with the possibility of a later start depending on further consultation.

There are still key points to be clarified, including:

• Whether certain specialist leases (e.g. agricultural or mining) will be excluded
• How rent review caps and collars will be treated
• How the rules will interact with statutory lease renewals

Impact on Existing Leases

Importantly, the reforms are not expected to apply retrospectively in most cases. Existing leases containing upwards-only rent review clauses will generally continue as agreed.

However, there is an important exception. Renewal arrangements agreed after mid-March 2026 may fall within the scope of the new regime once implemented. This means that parties currently negotiating leases with renewal options should already be considering the potential future impact.

Likely Changes to Market Practice

Even before the legislation takes effect, market behaviour is beginning to adapt. If landlords can no longer depend on rent increases at review, alternative approaches are likely to emerge.

We may see:

• Shorter lease terms, enabling more frequent open market resets
• Greater use of fixed or stepped rental increases
• Increased adoption of genuinely flexible index-linked reviews
• Wider use of turnover rents, particularly in retail and hospitality
• More detailed negotiation of break rights and review frequency
• Potentially higher initial rents, to offset future uncertainty

These changes could also affect how valuers assess property income and investment strength, particularly as the distinction between “old” and “new” lease structures becomes more pronounced.

Practical Considerations for Landlords And Tenants

Although implementation is still pending, this is not an issue to ignore. Parties negotiating leases now should be factoring in how the new rules may influence future arrangements.

Landlords may wish to:

• Review template lease terms and rent review provisions
• Consider alternative strategies for maintaining income stability
• Assess the potential impact on financing and asset valuation
• Explore re-gearing opportunities in existing leases

Tenants, on the other hand, may:

• Seek greater flexibility in long-term commitments
• Use the changing landscape to negotiate more balanced rent review terms
• Revisit renewal options and future leasing strategy

Looking Ahead

The proposed restriction on upwards-only rent reviews represents a significant evolution in the commercial leasing landscape.

While details are still being refined, the policy objective is clear: to create a more balanced framework that better reflects prevailing market conditions.

For landlords, tenants and property professionals alike, early preparation will be key.

Understanding how lease structures may need to evolve—and taking advice at the negotiation stage—will help ensure that arrangements remain both commercially viable and legally compliant.

Speak to Our Commercial Property Solicitors

At Bennett Griffin, our experienced commercial property solicitors (https://www.bennettgriffin.co.uk/with-your-business/commercial-property-law-solicitors/)  support landlords, tenants, investors and businesses with clear, practical advice on commercial leases, lease renewals and wider property matters.

Based in Worthing and Chichester, we work with clients across West Sussex and beyond, helping them understand their options and make confident commercial decisions.

If you are negotiating a new lease, reviewing existing lease terms or considering how these changes may affect your property portfolio, please contact our Commercial Property team.

Call us on 01903 229999 or 01243 781000 today. Alternatively, email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.

We will be happy to guide you through your options in a clear and practical way.

WBC Montague Gardens update - Expressions of Interest for Montague Gardens Kiosk

Worthing Borough Council is inviting Expressions of Interest (EoI) from individuals, businesses, social enterprises, artists, makers and community organisations interested in operating a new concession kiosk within Montague Gardens, Worthing's exciting new town centre public space. This is a unique opportunity and Worthing Borough Council is interested in hearing from as many interested parties as possible.

You can download the document here

Please pay attention to the offer and guidance contained within the document.  There is a strict timetable too, so if you have any questions, please email regeneration@adur-worthing.gov.uk and we will do our best to answer them.

The EoI document will be published shortly, on Adur & Worthing Councils' website.

Hargreaves Welcomes Bupa Occupational Health to Princes House, Brighton

Hargreaves Group, the private family-owned investment and development company with a strong commercial and residential portfolio across the Southeast, is pleased to announce a new letting to Bupa Occupational Health at Princes House, Queens Road, Brighton.

Bupa Occupational Health, a leading provider of workplace health services across the UK, has taken 5,330 sq ft of prominently positioned prime office accommodation on a new10-year term, further strengthening the occupier profile within this landmark Brighton building. The letting reflects continued demand for high-quality, well-located space from established national occupiers within the city centre office market.

Princes House occupies a prime position on Queens Road, directly adjacent to Brighton Station, providing excellent public transport connectivity and access to the city’s amenities. Hargreaves has continued to invest in the building, ensuring it offers efficient, modern accommodation suited to occupiers seeking long-term, sustainable premises.

Simon Vlok, Asset Manager at Hargreaves Group, commented:

“We are delighted to welcome Bupa Occupational Health to Princes House. This letting highlights the ongoing strength of demand for well-located, high-quality office accommodation in central Brighton. Securing a 10-year straight term from a national occupier reflects confidence in the building and reinforces Queens Road as a prime office destination.”

Hargreaves was advised by Stiles Harold Williams and Bupa Occupational Health was advised by Colliers.

Strike a pose! Huge community turnout for West Sussex care home’s charity fashion show

A Worthing care home has pulled out all the stops with its charity fashion show, raising in excess of £1,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Merriman Grange, part of Cinnamon Care Collection, recently teamed up with the Findon Valley Residents Association (FVRA) to host the event, themed ‘The Devil Wears Pre‑loved.’ Clothes showcased on the catwalk, all sourced from the Broadwater Cancer Research Shop, were available to purchase after the show, helping boost the fundraising total.

Natalie Birch, General Manager at Merriman Grange, said: “Thank you to all the volunteers for making ‘The Devil Wears Pre-Loved’ Fashion Show such a huge success. We are indebted to our residents for allowing us to host fundraising events like this in our home. It’s an honour to be able to support the local community in such a meaningful way.”

The show was a true community effort, with plenty of volunteer models from the local area joined by several residents and the home’s registered GP, Dr Dhillon from Lime Tree Surgery. Up to 80 guests enjoyed watching the models take to the runway before browsing the rails for their favourite pieces.

One of the home’s residents, Kathleen Litherland, said: “What an excellent evening! We were delighted that we were able to host this at Merriman Grange for the Cancer Research shop. The volunteers from the Findon Valley Residents Association did a great job. We hope they’ve raised a good amount for such a worthwhile charity.” 

Lorraine Taylor, Cancer Research Volunteer and Chair of the FVRA, added: “What a privilege to share this fantastically fun evening with such inspiring people, raising money for such an excellent cause.”

Named a ‘Top 20 Care Home’ in South-East England for 2026, Merriman Grange offers residential, dementia and respite care in West Sussex. For more information, visit www.cinnamoncc.com/care-homes/merriman-grange/.

Hargreaves Open Day Event - Prime City Centre Space in Brighton

Hargreaves Property is inviting local businesses and professionals to attend an Open Day at its Brighton offices, offering an opportunity to explore a selection of high-quality workspace in a prime city centre location. 

The event will showcase five office buildings located on Queens Road, Brighton, each offering modern facilities and competitive space for businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in the city. Attendees will be able to view a range of available offices, including spaces that feature private terraces, underground parking and convenient access to Brighton’s main transport links. 

Taking place on Tuesday 16 June from 8:30am to 2:00pm, the Open Day is designed to provide visitors with a relaxed and informative experience. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the buildings, speak with the Hargreaves Property team, and gain insight into the available space and leasing options. Refreshments will be available throughout the event.

This is a valuable opportunity for businesses considering relocation, expansion, or a move into Brighton to explore office solutions in a well-connected and vibrant commercial area.

To find out more about the available space or to register your interest in attending, please visit:
https://brighton.hargreaves.co.uk/available-space/

Paula Ros Manhatten Local Business Offer.

As a local business owner, in addition to the Paula Rosen Spring Sale: up to 50% off kitchens, we’re also offering you a FREE 3 in 1 Quooker tap* when you order a new kitchen worth over £2,500 before 28th June 2026.

Pop into our showroom today and quote LANCINGPARK to take advantage of this amazing offer. Don’t miss out.

01903 524331

lancing.showroom@prmf.co.uk

Exclusive Chamber Member Offer – 25% Off Worthing Pride 2026 Tickets!

Worthing Pride 2026 is set to be bigger, brighter and bolder than ever and Chamber of Commerce members can now enjoy an exclusive 25% discount on ALL ticket types.

As grassroots events across the UK continue to face rising challenges, Worthing Pride is calling on the local business community and supporters to help make this year’s celebration a huge success. In partnership with the Chamber, members can unlock this special offer by emailing lauren@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

The discount applies across all ticket categories, not just day tickets, making it the perfect opportunity to secure your place early and support one of the region’s most vibrant and inclusive community events.

Home & Company take action on Age Without Limits Day

This year Age Without Limits Day takes place on Wednesday 10^th June 2026. It’s an annual day to take action and tackle ageism.

Worthing has a significantly older population compared to the national average, so it’s especially important that we embrace older age. Interestingly the public think 25% of older people aged over 65 live in care homes. In fact it’s just 2.5%.

Chances are if you’re reading this then you’re a business owner. What could you do in your organisation to challenge ageism? Could you start a conversation with your team about age bias? Could you look at whether your own processes, such as recruitment, could be more age-neutral? Could you partner with any groups in your local community? Could you post some age-positive photos on your social media? There are some great resources on the agewithoutlimits.org site.

https://www.agewithoutlimits.org/image-library

At Home & Company we are passionate about supporting people, many of whom are older, to live their lives to the full. That could be getting to the cinema for the latest film, helping with their garden, or something as simple as getting to the shops to choose their own food. The small things matter too.

And we’re often blown away by the skills and experience of the people we’re supporting. Our team, who are very age-diverse themselves, often say they learn so much from the people they visit. It really is a two-way process that the team feel they benefit from. One of the things are team often say they learn from supporting older people is being more mindful and living in the moment.

We recently attended the funeral of someone we had helped for over five years. She was always very clear about the help she wanted, and the need to maintain her independence as far as possible, including walks and being immersed in nature. In fact, she had been a forerunner within social care for advocating choice and was well-known in her field. It really pays to remember that age brings experience and wisdom, and we can all learn from that.

We’re all on the ageing journey, so it’s to all our benefit that we challenge ageism now.

Home & Company support people in Sussex, but are happy to help with advice and signposting wherever you are so do feel free to get in touch.

Hospital visitors benefit from brand new facilities

Pilbeam Construction, working closely with University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust has completed a project to modernise and enhance the existing public toilets for visitors and patients at The Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath.

The existing smaller facilities that had become dated were replaced with a bigger and brighter more modern space featuring new extract ventilation, correcting one of the major issues of the previous block.

Sussex contractor Pilbeam Construction worked with the Trust and relevant stakeholders to design and remodel the space, ensuring it met all NHS regulations and needs in terms of patient safety and accessibility.

Alan Corbett, managing director at Pilbeam Construction, based in Southwick, West Sussex, said: "This is the fourth time we have worked with the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath and this project builds on our extensive experience of operating in sensitive healthcare settings.

"Our team has vast experience of working in a live healthcare environment and we managed to keep disruption for healthcare professionals, service users and patients to a minimum.

"This scheme will provide hospital visitors with a modern and easily maintained facility which will stand the test of time."

Work started on the £502k project in March and was completed on 22 August, with Pilbeam designing the new space to ensure it met Health Technical Memoranda and Health Building regulations.

The team provided temporary toilets suitable for a busy 24-hour facility, whilst they replaced the main public toilets for the hospital.

The new block includes facilities for men, women and two separate accessible gender-neutral toilets, as well as baby change facilities.

Justin Champneys, capital development manager for the Trust at The Princess Royal Hospital said: “The response from visitors and staff has been fantastic with many commenting on what a great improvement the new facilities are.

“The public toilets are a focal point to the entry of the hospital and anything we can do to make our patients’ visits a more pleasant experience is important.

“Pilbeam’s expert team ensured minimal disruption, whilst dealing with the challenges of working in a live hospital environment.”

For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/