Specialist property finance brokerage Cator Wells Finance has successfully secured a £5.2 million funding package for Boxted Park, a landmark new-build commercial development near Colchester, overcoming significant funding challenges that had previously prevented the client from accessing finance through conventional lenders.
Commercial property developments continue to be among the most difficult to finance, with many lenders reluctant to back schemes unless they are fully pre-let or pre-sold. After exhausting traditional funding routes, the client turned to Cator Wells for a tailored solution.
The deal has been structured in two distinct phases: an initial release of £3.6 million to commence construction and complete phase one, followed by an additional £1.6 million to finalise the project. This phased structure provides the necessary cashflow while ensuring confidence in the project’s successful delivery.
Cator Wells worked closely with the developer, Baahn Developments, conducting a comprehensive site visit and leveraging its extensive lender network to negotiate the facility. In a strong vote of confidence, the chosen lender agreed to exceed its standard maximum lending parameters, demonstrating trust in both the project and the delivery team.
Boxted Park is a 23-unit Class E business development designed with a contemporary agricultural-fusion concept. Unit sizes range from 955 to 1,992 sq. ft., with flexible options starting from 433 sq. ft. The scheme blends striking modern architecture with landscaped communal spaces and eco-conscious infrastructure, including EV charging and solar energy capabilities, meeting the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable commercial workspaces outside congested urban centres.
“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 Boxted Park are vital to meeting that need, and we’re proud to play a role in bringing them forward.”
The transaction comes at a pivotal time for the UK office market. With hybrid working now firmly established, demand for smaller, purpose-built developments outside central London has surged, allowing businesses to offer employees high-quality work environments closer to home.
By structuring this facility, Cator Wells has enabled Baahn Developments to deliver Boxted Park with certainty — creating much-needed, sustainable commercial space in a prime location just minutes from Colchester, the A12, and direct rail links to London Liverpool Street in under an hour.
For property developers seeking funding for commercial or residential projects — especially those facing complex financial challenges — Cator Wells offers bespoke solutions designed to unlock development potential.
