An example of regeneration done right
We recently announced a £16.2 million refinancing deal with The Co-operative Bank for the Grade I-listed Royal William Yard estate, in the 200th year of Plymouth’s most famous historical attraction. The five-year refinancing deal, arranged with the support of funding agents Deloitte, covers 174,000 sq ft of historic commercial space at the Yard – a thriving waterfront destination now home to occupiers including an Everyman Cinema, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
In this article, we meet Jordan Lazenbury, Corporate Banking Manager at The Co-operative Bank, who shares insight into the shared values between the Bank and Urban Splash, and explains what this deal means for the Bank and the communities it supports.

At The Co-operative Bank, we are committed to supporting economic and social development by working with businesses and organisations that are responsible, community-minded, and aligned with our values – values we proudly share with fellow Manchester-headquartered business Urban Splash.
Our relationship with Urban Splash spans decades. We first partnered with them in the early 2000s, helping to finance pioneering developments like the award-winning Chimney Pot Park in Salford, a pioneering place that’s famous perhaps for its ‘upside down houses’, with Urban Splash turning the traditional terrace on its head. Such early projects set the tone for other collaborations built on innovation, regeneration, and social purpose.

Most recently, that includes Royal William Yard in Plymouth. This collection of Grade I and II listed buildings caught our attention on account of its architectural merit and the fact that it’s an example of regeneration done right – blending heritage with modern use in a way that benefits the wider community.
The Yard is exactly the type of destination we want to invest in. It’s a place that’s helping to shape Plymouth’s future – creating jobs, attracting businesses, drawing in residents and visitors alike, and breathing new life into one of the city’s most significant landmarks. These are the kinds of positive outcomes we look for as a purpose-driven bank.

This £16.2 million refinancing deal is about more than just the financials. It’s support of Urban Splash’s long-term vision and the resilience of Royal William Yard as a unique, sustainable destination. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to backing projects that support communities, protect heritage, and promote inclusive growth.

This partnership is a natural fit for The Co-operative Bank – an ethical bank that has supported communities across the UK for more than 150 years. We're proud to continue our journey alongside Urban Splash, helping to deliver places that matter – now and for future generations.
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