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ARTICLE · 05 NOVEMBER 2025

What Lessons Does Weis v GMCA Have For Public Authorities Delivering Regeneration Projects?

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In June 2024, property developer Mr Aubrey Weis appealed to the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), challenging approximately £120m in loans...

United KingdomGovernment, Public Sector
Angelica Hymers
Angelica Hymers

In June 2024, property developer Mr Aubrey Weis appealed to the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), challenging approximately £120m in loans (the Loans) made by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to support a high-quality housing project within its area.

Mr Weis argued that the Loans breached the Subsidy Control Act 2022 (the Act) because they were granted on non-commercial, "non-market terms", effectively constituting a subsidy that distorted competition in the local property market.

In this article, we cover key points from the respondent's argument and its implications for public sector lending in regeneration projects.

The respondent's argument

  • The decision to make the Loans did not amount to an unlawful subsidy at the time of the Appellant's application in June 2024, as the decision was still in principle and not yet formally executed. On that basis, it could not amount to a subsidy decision capable of being challenged under section 70(1)

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