National law firm Shakespeare Martineau has advised the shareholders of Manor Oak Homes on the sale of the established Midlands-based land promoter to Wates Land & Development division, part of the Wates Group.
Manor Oak Homes is a well-regarded regional land promoter with a strong reputation across the Midlands and a high-quality portfolio of 52 maturing sites. The transaction supports Wates Land & Development’s strategic expansion into the region and further strengthens its national land promotion platform.
Shakespeare Martineau advised on the full range of legal services in relation to the transaction, including corporate M&A, real estate, employment, restructuring and corporate tax advice.
The corporate team advising the shareholders of Manor Oak Homes was led by corporate partners Lisa Botterill and Dean Chauhan, with support from solicitor Zain Siddiqui and trainee legal adviser Chloe Hodges. The wider team advising on the deal included Huw Witty (Tax), Louise Ingram, Charlotte O’Loughlin and Carys Smith (Real Estate), Neelam Powar and Morgan Lloyd (Employment).
Lisa Botterill, corporate partner at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “This transaction reflects the continued strength of regional land promotion activity and highlights the importance of bringing together culturally aligned, long-term focused businesses. We were pleased to have supported the shareholders of Manor Oak Homes on a smooth and successful sale to Wates Land & Development.”
The Midlands-focused business will operate as Wates Manor Oak, with the existing leadership team remaining in place to ensure continuity and build on the strong relationships already established across the region.
Manor Oak Homes founder and managing director Will Main said: “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.
“We’re excited about the growth potential this creates for us to combine our knowledge and relationships to unlock new opportunities and deliver high-quality, sustainable developments for the future.”
David Brocklebank, executive managing director for Wates Land & Development division, said: “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.
“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.”