Wates Land & Development has expanded into the Midlands through the acquisition of regional land promoter Manor Oak Homes.
The deal adds 52 sites to Wates’ land portfolio and establishes a dedicated Midlands-focused operation, further strengthening the company’s position in the UK land promotion sector.
The acquisition follows Wates’ recent expansion into the South West and reflects the company’s wider growth strategy as it seeks to increase its presence across key regional markets.
Manor Oak Homes has built a strong reputation across the Midlands, working with landowners, developers and local authorities to promote sites through the planning system and bring forward land for residential development.
REGIONAL PLATFORM
Under the deal, the business will operate as Wates Manor Oak, with Manor Oak founder and Managing Director Will Main and the existing leadership team remaining in place.
Wates says the acquisition significantly increases the scale of its land promotion activities and provides immediate access to an established regional platform with a pipeline of maturing development opportunities.
David Brocklebank (main picture, right), Executive Managing Director of Wates Land & Development, says: “The acquisition of Manor Oak marks a significant step forward for Wates Land & Development, further strengthening our position as one of the UK’s leading land promoters.
“Bringing its portfolio of high-quality Midlands-based sites and its well-regarded and experienced team into our business adds critical breadth and depth and gives us immediate and credible delivery capability in a region of huge opportunity.”
Brocklebank says the acquisition forms part of the company’s long-term strategy to support sustainable development and housing delivery.
He adds: “This growth is not just about scale but is reflective of our long-term commitment to delivering sustainable development that creates lasting value.
“Guided by our purpose of reimagining places where people can thrive, we are focused on shaping high-quality, inclusive communities that support people, places and planet, now and for generations to come.”
LONG-TERM APPROACH
Will Main (main picture, left), Founder and Managing Director of Manor Oak Homes, says the two businesses shared a similar long-term approach to land and development.
He adds: “This is a natural fit for both businesses, bringing together two family-owned organisations that share a long-term outlook and a genuine passion for land and development.
“There is a strong cultural alignment, making this an excellent opportunity for the Manor Oak team as well as for our landowners and partners, who will benefit from the strength and expertise that comes from being part of a larger organisation.”
The acquisition comes as demand for strategic land continues to grow, with developers and housebuilders seeking sites capable of supporting future housing delivery in regions with strong long-term growth prospects.
Wates Land & Development forms part of the wider Wates Group and includes residential land promotion, commercial land promotion, biodiversity projects and commercial property investment activities.
