Cator Wells Finance has successfully brokered a £5.2 million funding package to support the delivery of Boxted Park, a modern commercial development in Colchester, after the client faced significant hurdles obtaining finance through conventional lenders.
Commercial property development continues to present challenges for borrowers, with many lenders unwilling to fund projects unless there are existing pre-lets or pre-sales. Following several refusals from traditional funding sources, the client turned to Cator Wells for an innovative solution.
The deal was structured in two stages, releasing £3.6 million to start construction and complete the first phase, followed by a further £1.6 million to bring the entire development to completion. This phased model ensures both financial security and project continuity.
To secure the facility, the Cator Wells team visited the site, collaborated closely with Baahn Developments, and leveraged strong lender relationships. In a significant show of trust, the lender agreed to exceed its typical maximum lending limits, demonstrating confidence in the project’s viability and the developer’s capability.
Boxted Park will feature 23 high-spec Class E business units, designed around a distinctive agricultural-fusion concept. Units range between 955 and 1,992 sq. ft., with flexible layouts starting from 433 sq. ft. The development incorporates modern architectural elements, landscaped communal areas, and sustainability-focused infrastructure such as EV charging points and solar energy systems, appealing to businesses seeking greener workspaces outside congested city 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 deal comes at a time when the UK office property market is evolving rapidly, with hybrid working patterns accelerating demand for smaller, sustainable business developments closer to residential areas.
Through this facility, Cator Wells has enabled Baahn Developments to bring Boxted Park to life, providing modern, eco-conscious commercial spaces in a location just minutes from Colchester, the A12, and direct rail links to London Liverpool Street in under an hour.
