David Gladman, a developer from Cheshire, has initiated a new venture focusing on the acquisition of freehold farmland. This move follows the sale of his previous business to a national housebuilder in January 2021.
In January 2021, David Gladman sold his company, Congleton-based Gladman Developments, to Barratt Developments for £250 million. Subsequently, in October 2023, he founded Nightingale Land, which has since acquired a portfolio of six sites, with two additional offers accepted.
Nightingale Land, led by Gladman and Development Director John Chorlton, specialises in acquiring freehold farmland with residential potential. The firm’s business model emphasises expedited transactions for landowners, offering significantly higher-than-market values, typically ranging between £1 million and £2 million.
David Gladman, Chairman of Nightingale Land, noted, “We provide an alternative to option and promotion agreements which go through lengthy and bureaucratic planning processes, and can often see planning applications refused. Nightingale buying freehold farmland gives the landowners a lifestyle change immediately.” This model eliminates the uncertainties associated with obtaining planning permissions, allowing landowners to liquidate their assets promptly.
The newly established company has seen substantial interest in its business model. The portfolio spans from Cheshire to Dorset, with the latest acquisition being a site in Great Shelford, near Cambridge. Remarkably, this transaction was finalised in just 10 days after the offer was accepted. John Chorlton stated, “Nightingale Land provides the certainty to landowners that they will receive payment within a matter of weeks. We have an in-house expert property lawyer and complete within four weeks on acceptance of our offer.”
Nightingale Land aims to expand its portfolio to 30 sites nationwide. It is also open to acquiring sites with existing option and promotion agreements. Despite the significant proceeds from the sale of his previous business, Gladman remains actively involved in the property sector. He commented, “I think some people expected me to retire after the sale of my last business, but total retirement just isn’t for me. I enjoy the mental stimulation, teamwork, the buzz from success, and the drive to achieve. And it provides a great long-term home for some of the sale proceeds.”
In summary, Nightingale Land represents a forward-thinking approach to land acquisition, providing landowners with immediate financial benefits while taking on the risks and uncertainties of planning processes. As the company continues to grow, it aims to revolutionise the sector with its unique business model.