Is this a new trend?

This past weekend, the Hotel Intercontinental Stuttgart upgraded me to their Club Intercontinental floor (which is my entitlement as a Six Continents Club Executive member), but denied me access to the Club Lounge. They said this is a new policy in effect for about one month. They expect other Intercontinentals to be following suit.

Given that basic membership in Six Continents Club has to be paid for, is it legitimate to change the terms mid-way through a membership year?

Anyone else experienced this at Intercontinental or other hotel chains? For me, the major benefit of a club- or concierge-level upgrade is the free breakfast, snacks and drinks in the lounge. If this is going to be taken away, there is very little point in remaining loyal to achieve elite status with a particular chain.