More than 20 banks are now willing to lend substantial amounts against UK commercial property deals, as the rebound in the sector was underscored by the third consecutive month of positive returns.

Research by property adviser Savills found that 23 banks are now willing to lend over £20m (€22m) to UK property deals. In March, the adviser only found 12 banks willing to lend a similar amount. New names on the list include French insurer Aviva, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group and Royal Bank of Scotland.