Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has completed a £1.5m commercial development facility under a new £25m multi-site framework designed to fund the rollout of drive-thru and electric vehicle (EV) charging schemes across the UK.
The inaugural facility supports the development of a branded drive-thru unit alongside 16 ultra-fast EV charging bays, combining long-term leases with major occupiers in both the retail and energy sectors.
The project represents a growing trend towards integrating EV infrastructure into roadside retail and reflects lenders’ increasing focus on supporting developments that deliver both commercial and environmental outcomes.
The framework provides a structured and scalable model for experienced borrowers operating multiple sites, allowing developments to be assessed and funded individually under consistent terms.
This approach aims to streamline execution, reduce duplication, and provide greater certainty for programme-based developers.
The transaction was introduced by Luke Rutherford at Vault Commercial Finance, with legal support from Brecher LLP, valuation by Allsop and monitoring by MDA Consulting.
Tim Mycock, lending director at Hampshire Trust Bank, said: “The developer’s experience and delivery capability make them a natural fit for this type of structured funding approach.
“The framework we have established allows both sides to work with a clear, consistent process for each site, reducing duplication, accelerating delivery and ensuring every facility is shaped around the borrower’s wider strategy.
“We are seeing more experienced developers moving towards programme-based funding as a way to manage multiple sites efficiently while maintaining flexibility.
“It is an approach that requires confidence in the relationship and confidence in the structure, and this deal reflects both.”
Luke Rutherford, director at Vault Commercial Finance, said: “It has been great working with Tim Mycock and Beth Rungay at HTB on this deal.
“Their proactive approach, clear communication and commitment to getting it completed have really been head and shoulders above the rest.
“We have faced challenges on similar developments in the past, so it has been especially rewarding to see this one come together so smoothly thanks to their hard work.”
Neil Leitch, managing director of development finance at Hampshire Trust Bank, added: “The roadside retail and EV sectors are proving to be among the most resilient areas of activity, supported by long leases, strong covenants and clear sustainability alignment.
“They also illustrate how the market is diversifying, with smaller format, service-led schemes creating dependable income streams and continued demand.
“This facility demonstrates how specialist lenders can provide structure and continuity for borrowers building at scale.
“It also shows how HTB continues to support experienced SME borrowers with pragmatic funding solutions that combine flexibility, discipline and long-term partnership.
“Providing that structure and certainty is what enables these borrowers to continue delivering across an evolving market, and it is where specialist banks like HTB continue to play a vital role in supporting growth across the real economy.”
