Development Finance for Large Projects
Funding solutions for major residential, commercial, and mixed-use development schemes requiring significant capital commitment.
Transaction range: £5m – £100m+
Key features
- Ground-Up Development
- Major Refurbishment
- Mixed-Use Schemes
- Phased Drawdowns
- GDV-Linked Facilities
Funding Major Developments Across the UK
Large-scale developments require lenders who understand complex construction programmes, phased drawdowns, and the commercial dynamics of multi-unit schemes. We connect experienced developers with specialist funders who can underwrite transactions at scale.
Our development finance team has arranged funding for schemes ranging from 50-unit residential developments to major mixed-use regeneration projects. We understand the critical importance of cost monitoring, build programme management, and sales strategy in securing the best terms.
We work across the full spectrum of development types — new-build residential, student accommodation, commercial office schemes, industrial/logistics, and build-to-rent — arranging senior debt, stretch senior, and mezzanine where required.
Benefits
- Access to specialist large-project lenders
- Competitive rates from 6.5% per annum
- Phased drawdown facilities to manage cashflow
- Mezzanine top-up available to 90% LTGDV
- Experienced team with £500m+ development deals arranged
- Dedicated relationship through to practical completion
Ideal for
- Experienced developers with a proven track record
- Ground-up residential schemes of 20+ units
- Commercial and mixed-use developments
- Build-to-rent and student accommodation projects
- Permitted development conversions at scale
- Regeneration and brownfield site developments
Frequently asked questions
What experience do I need to secure large-project development finance?
Most lenders require a demonstrable track record of completing similar-sized projects. However, we work with funders who can support developers stepping up in scale provided the wider team (contractor, QS, project manager) has relevant experience.
What loan-to-cost ratios are available?
Senior development finance typically covers 60–70% of total costs and up to 65% of GDV. With a mezzanine tranche, total leverage can reach 85–90% of costs.
How long does it take to arrange large-project development finance?
Indicative terms can be provided within days. Full credit approval and legal completion typically take 4–8 weeks depending on the complexity of the scheme and planning position.
Offices
Registered and North of England office: Ayrshire Lodge, Brass Castle Lane, Nunthorpe, Middlesbrough, TS8 9EB.
London office: 167-169 Great Portland Street, 5th Floor, London, W1W 5PF.
Telephone +44 7746 212528. Email som@unicorn-commercial.co.uk
Unicorn Capital Advisory is a trading name of Unicorn Capital Advisory LLP (LLP No. OC459692). Finance is arranged for business purposes only and is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Home | Services | About | Case studies | Insights