At Cator Wells, we recently arranged a £5.2 million loan facility for a new-build commercial development, helping the client overcome significant funding hurdles after being turned away by traditional lenders.
Commercial development projects can be among the most difficult to finance, with many lenders reluctant to support schemes unless they are pre-sold or pre-let. In this case, the client had been unable to secure the required facility elsewhere and approached us for a solution.
We structured the facility across two phases: an initial £3.6 million to commence construction, followed by a further £1.6 million to complete the scheme. This phased approach gave the client the liquidity and flexibility to progress with confidence.
Our team conducted a site visit, assessed the developer’s capability, and leveraged our network of lender relationships to secure terms that exceeded the lender’s standard parameters. This demonstrated not only confidence in the project but also in the delivery team behind it.
The development itself was designed to meet growing demand for modern, flexible, and sustainable commercial space outside of traditional city hubs. With landscaped surroundings, eco-conscious infrastructure such as EV charging and solar readiness, and high-quality finishes, the scheme reflects the market’s shift towards bespoke office and mixed-use environments closer to where people live and work.
“This project is a textbook example of the value we bring,” said Daniel Dawson, Director at Cator Wells. “When others said no, we were able to draw on our network and credibility to arrange finance that simply wouldn’t have been achievable through standard routes. It shows that with the right approach, even the most difficult commercial developments can be funded.”
John Gow, Director at Cator Wells, added: “We’re seeing a real shift in demand for bespoke office and commercial space outside of the main city hubs. With more businesses adopting flexible working patterns, regional towns and suburban locations are experiencing a resurgence in demand for high-quality, modern workspaces. Projects like this are vital to meeting that need, and we’re proud to play a role in bringing them forward.”
This case study highlights how Cator Wells’ strategic approach to finance – combining deep market knowledge, lender trust, and structured funding solutions – can unlock developments that would otherwise stall.
If you are seeking similar finance solutions for commercial or residential property developments, or require bespoke funding for a challenging project, the team at Cator Wells would be delighted to help. Get in touch to explore how we can structure the right facility for your next development.