Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has provided an £8.28 million facility to Soller Nine to support the acquisition and preparatory works for a major development site in central Manchester.

The funding enables the borrower to refinance its existing lender while releasing equity to progress demolition and advance pre-let discussions for the landmark scheme.

The site has full planning consent for an 18-storey Grade A office building designed to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’, EPC A, WELL ‘Gold’ and Wiredscore ‘Platinum’ ratings — credentials that reflect the market’s growing focus on sustainability and occupier wellbeing.

The transaction, which involved eight titles, required a tailored structure to manage its complexity. HTB worked swiftly to complete the deal, which marks the beginning of a new relationship with Soller.

The facility was led by lending director Harry Bhogal, supported by relationship manager Joe Gibson. BNP Paribas acted as valuer, with legal counsel from Glovers.

Bhogal (pictured) said: “This was a technically challenging deal that required a clear understanding of the planning and title structure to move forward.

“We worked closely with Soller to shape a facility that managed risk and gave them the confidence to start key on-site works while advancing pre-lets.

“It shows how we look beyond conventional criteria to find solutions that make commercial sense for all sides.”

Soller chief executive Nick Treadwell said: “This transaction involved multiple titles and a complex planning position, so it required a lender that could grasp the detail quickly and structure around it. HTB did exactly that.

“They understood how critical timing and liquidity were to keep the project moving, and their responsiveness gave us the certainty we needed to press ahead. It was a very collaborative process and one we’d be happy to repeat.”

Neil Leitch, managing director of development finance at HTB, added: “Manchester remains one of the UK’s most dynamic regional cities, with sustained demand for high-quality, sustainable workspace.

“The city continues to attract occupiers seeking energy-efficient buildings, and schemes like this are vital in addressing the shortage of Grade A supply. This transaction reflects the kind of intelligent structuring and collaboration that define our approach to development funding, supported by the team’s regional insight and ability to act decisively.”