Burston Ridge Farm

With a career spanning two decades, the developer behind the Burston Ridge Farm project had a wealth of experience in acquisitions, project delivery, and asset management. Having worked with major industry players, they had the expertise to identify opportunities and maximise site potential - vital characteristics for any developer!  

It was these qualities that led to our client taking a big step and setting out on their own independent development journey. With the vision and skills needed to be a success, they simply needed a funding partner who understood the complexities of development and could provide the support needed to help them realise their grand vision.

Happily, VM FInance was well acquainted with the client already, having developed a valued relationship with them throughout their journey in the industry. It was a great pleasure to have the opportunity to work with them on their own terms for the Burston Ridge Farm project.

Burston Ridge Farm is located just North of Aylesbury. An agricultural site with bags of potential, it presented a strong opportunity for high-quality housing not far from a sought-after commuter town.  

Originally comprising two agricultural barns with planning permission for two three-bedroom and two four-bedroom homes, our client was convinced there was a way to unlock more potential on the site. Rather than proceeding with the existing plans, they enhanced the layout and optimised the design to allow for more homes to be built.

After seeing the potential of the site and motivated to work with a client we had a positive relationship with, VM Finance committed to providing a tailored investment for the Burston Ridge Farm project.

A massive part of our ethos is centred around the power of our customer relationships. Over and above mere transactions, we always strive to build positive and profitable partnerships that stand the test of time. That means being actively involved, really understanding our client’s needs and providing a funding solution that’s bespoke to the project.

The first step was acquisition funding, allowing the developer to secure the barns while simultaneously working on an improved planning application. By having financial support in place from the outset, they had the flexibility to enhance the scheme rather than being restricted by the original planning consent – something that had the potential to add much more value to the scheme.

Happily, the local authority approved the revised plans, increasing the unit count and allowing three three-bed and four four-bed terraced houses, creating a development that was much more commercially viable than the previously approved planning proposal.

With planning secured, VM Finance transitioned the facility into a development loan, providing £2.75 million in funding. Structured as a 65% loan-to-GDV product over 18 months, this financial arrangement ensured stability throughout the construction process while also allowing ample time for marketing and sales.

Beyond financing, we remained actively engaged throughout the development phase, offering strategic support at key milestones. With regular check-ins and a shared commitment to success, the project stayed on track, and construction was completed well ahead of schedule.  

Instead of needing the full 18-month term, the build was substantially completed in just eight months, leaving a comfortable buffer for final touches and marketing before the homes entered the market.

By refining the scheme and maximising the site’s potential, the project achieved a GDV increase of over 48%.

This significant uplift in value is a testament not just to the shrewd planning and vision of our client, but a clear demonstration of the power of a relationship-led approach to development.  

With construction complete and a sales launch on the horizon, the end result is looking absolutely fantastic. The truly unique development will be a welcome addition to the Aylesbury area, offering new homes that will excite those looking for a touch of class.