Development Finance
September 19, 2026
The Complete UK Development Finance Guide for 2026
Everything property developers need to know about structuring development finance in 2026 — from loan-to-cost ratios to drawdowns and exit strategies.
Welcome to Ascend
Specialist commercial, bridging and development finance with a modern, client-focused approach.
Development Finance
Funding that supports your project from concept through completion with clarity and control.
Bridging Finance
Fast, flexible short-term finance designed to unlock opportunities when timing matters most.
Commercial Finance
Straightforward funding solutions tailored to help businesses grow, invest and move forward.
About Us
Ascend is part of the 2M Group of companies, created to provide specialist commercial, bridging and development finance with a modern, client-focused approach. We combine market expertise with a streamlined, responsive service that helps clients move quickly and confidently. Whether you're acquiring property, developing land or securing business funding, Ascend delivers clear guidance and dependable financial solutions to support your ambitions.
Get in Touch
Meet Our Leadership
Our team of seasoned financial experts brings decades of experience in commercial, bridging, and development finance.
Neil Milnthorpe
CEO and Head of Finance
With over 20 years in specialized lending, Neil leads Ascend with a vision to provide fast, flexible, and transparent funding solutions for complex property developments.
Dene Bentley
Head of Commercial
Dene is a Bridging and Development finance specialist, ensuring our clients receive tailored, rapid funding solutions for complex property projects.
Thomas Chell
Head of Marketing and Education
Thomas drives our marketing strategy and educational initiatives, empowering clients and partners with the insights they need to make informed financial decisions.
Rob Heeley
Head of IT
Rob ensures our technology infrastructure is robust, secure, and scalable, driving digital innovation to enhance our financial services and client experience.
Our Services
At Ascend, we offer a suite of specialist funding options built around the needs of property investors, developers and businesses:
Development Finance
We provide structured finance for ground-up developments, conversions and large-scale refurbishment projects. Our approach ensures you have the right level of funding at each stage — from initial purchase, through construction, to project completion — giving you both flexibility and control throughout the lifecycle of your development.
Bridging Finance
Ascend offers fast, adaptable bridging solutions designed to help you secure opportunities without delay. Whether you're managing a chain break, purchasing a property quickly, or waiting for longer-term funding to complete, our short-term finance options provide the breathing space you need to act decisively.
Commercial Finance
Our commercial funding solutions support a wide range of business and property needs, including investment purchases, refinancing, expansion and restructuring. We work with an extensive panel of lenders to source competitive, tailored options that empower businesses to grow with confidence.
News & Insights
Stay updated with the latest market trends, company news, and expert financial insights — updated daily.
Bridging Finance
September 18, 2026
Bridging Finance Explained: When Speed Matters Most
A practical guide to bridging loans — how they work, what they cost, and the property scenarios where short-term finance gives you a decisive edge.
Commercial Finance
September 17, 2026
Commercial Finance for Growing Businesses in 2026
How to secure the right commercial funding to grow, invest, or restructure your business — with insights into the lender panel approach.