University of Leicester’s Attenborough Arts Centre has been awarded close to £900,000 in Arts Council funding to carry out a major programme of accessibility and inclusive design improvements to its Lancaster Road building. Excello Law advised the University on the legal aspects of securing and processing the grant.
In 2025, Excello was appointed to the University’s newly established real estate legal panel on an initial two-year basis. As part of the arrangement, Excello advises the University on all aspects of their real estate portfolio including development and construction advice as well as transactions. Richard Osborn, real estate partner and regional director at Excello, led the legal work supporting the University through the grant process for the Arts Centre.
The funding has been awarded from the Creative Foundations Fund, from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Arts Council England, and is part of the University’s 2121: Founders of the Future philanthropic campaign aiming to raise £100 million for research and education. The award forms part of a wider £19 million package shared among cultural organisations across the Midlands.
The refurbishment of the Arts Centre over the next 18 months will include a range of accessibility improvements including a new Changing Places facility for disabled visitors, power-assisted doors, accessible signage, refurbished toilets and studios plus new dedicated spaces for artists and communities which will together optimise visitor experience, environmental sustainability and income generation.
Andrew Fletcher, Director of Attenborough Arts Centre, comments:
“Our thanks to Richard and the Excello team for their hard work and expertise delivered in the process of securing this funding. Richard worked quickly to put securities in place and enable the project to proceed as quickly as possible. We really appreciate all his and Excello Law’s efficiency to make this happen.”
Richard Osborn comments:
“Excello is proud to have built a strong working relationship with the University of Leicester over a number of years. It’s been a pleasure to put that experience to work in support of a project that will mean so much to the local community, helping Attenborough Arts Centre fulfil its mission to make art accessible for all.”
With more than 270 lawyers worldwide, Excello Law is one of the largest fee-share firms in the UK, with a multinational presence including offices in the USA and UAE. Excello gives its team of senior partners the resources and infrastructure they need to build and grow a business for themselves with the backing of a professional, dedicated support team.
