The National Landlords Association (NLA) has welcomed a decision by the High Court dismissing legal challenges to the NLA/NFRL merger.

In July 2008, the NLA and NFRL (National Federation of Residential Landlords) merged to form the largest landlord association in the UK.

Shortly after the merger was announced, 11 members of the former NFRL started legal proceedings against the NLA and the majority NFRL directors who were in favour of the merger. For nine months, the NLA agreed to adhere to a number of strict High Court undertakings which prevented it from effectively representing and assisting landlords who were members of the former NFRL.

On 21st May, His Honour Judge Pelling QC dismissed the legal challenges to the merger. He also ordered those who brought the action to pay the NLA’s costs.

David Salusbury, chairman, NLA, said: “It is a relief that this episode is now over. The NLA remains wholeheartedly committed to the concept of a unified voice for landlords and we never believed that costly litigation would be in the best interests of members or of the private-rented sector. We now look forward to welcoming new members on board and helping to support them in their lettings business.”