This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
MALAYSIAN property developer UEM Sunrise has hit back at claims that it is turfing out Paddle Battle from a Melbourne CBD tower before it got the chance to open.
Paddle Battle was set to open a 400-seat restaurant and bar and table tennis concept venue, but claimed earlier this week that UEM has terminated its lease in September after bitter disputes over an easement running through the property, air conditioning upgrades and engineering drawings that were incorrect.
In response to Australian Property Journal‘s story, UEM is refuting claims that the company acted improperly.
“UEM Sunrise refutes any suggestions of improper conduct regarding the tenancy with Eatertainment Group at Aurora Melbourne Central,” UEM said in a statement to APJ.
“The parties should respect that the current issue is ongoing and being deliberated before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). The company, in compliance with the legal process, will not provide any further details regarding the dispute.
“UEM Sunrise is proud of the many strong retail partnerships it has formed over the past six years across four sites in Melbourne. We’re also proud to regularly contribute back to the communities and local economies we operate in, such as our recent Foodbank partnership at Aurora Melbourne Central and the Bourne Local community markets, a hospitality and entertainment initiative at our pre-development site in Collingwood.” UEM told APJ.
Paddle Battle is backed by Eatertainment and its subsidiary, Home of Hospitality, which creates and manages a range of restaurant, bar and café brands. Its backers include Eleanor Barrott, who co-founded MAMOS Greek Street Food, and George Pezaros, who founded the Degani café chain and ENA Greek restaurant, both of which he has since sold.
Eatertainment claims the lease termination has left it facing a potential loss of $3.3 million it already invested and an additional $4 million needed to finalise construction and open Paddle Battle.
