Noise you're right, it stinks to high heaven. The lack of communication to the people that really deserve to know (us!) and the apparent treatment of Elia just isnt on.
I'd not be in the slightest bit surprised if it comes out that there was something under hand and as has already been suggested the whole thing has just been a case of going through the motions.
I sincerly hope this isn't the case, but a 3 year lease like has been said, isn't really enough to build what will be a new business on with no garuntee of further. I dont blame the guy for pulling out.
WK