Feasibility Studies

We carry out feasibility studies for proposed new cultural buildings and major refurbishments – providing the evidence and analysis that organisations, funders and decision-makers need before committing to a major capital project. Our track record in this area spans new theatres, concert halls, arts centres and museums across the UK and internationally, including a major new arts centre in Kuala Lumpur.

Find out more about the team behind this work on our About us page.

What our feasibility studies cover

A feasibility study for a cultural building is one of the most important commissions an organisation will ever undertake. Done well, it provides a clear, evidence-based answer to the central question: is this project viable, and on what terms?

Our feasibility studies for arts venues typically address the full range of factors that funders and boards need to understand before proceeding with a capital project. We draw on deep sector experience to produce studies that are rigorous, realistic and persuasive – built on audience data, financial modelling and operational insight rather than aspiration alone.

Studies typically cover:

• Audience demand and catchment analysis
• Programming and operational requirements
• Capital cost estimates and funding strategy
• Revenue projections and business modelling
• Sustainability and environmental considerations
• Governance and management structures for the new venue
• Site appraisal and architectural brief development
• Stakeholder consultation

Our approach aligns with Arts Council England’s Building Excellence guidance, ensuring that studies meet the standards expected by major funders.

Who is this for?

Feasibility studies for cultural buildings are commissioned by a wide range of organisations. We work with:

• Local authorities planning new cultural infrastructure
• Trusts and charities developing capital projects
• Architectural practices needing a cultural brief and business case
• Arts Council England capital grant applicants
• International clients planning new arts venues
• Developers and regeneration agencies incorporating cultural facilities into mixed-use schemes

Whether you are at the earliest stage of exploring a new venue or developing a business case for a funding application, we can help you build the evidence base to move forward with confidence.

What you can expect

At the end of a feasibility study, you will have a document that is both rigorous in its analysis and practical in its conclusions. Our clients can expect:

• A robust, evidence-based feasibility report
• Clear recommendations on viability, scale, programming and operational model
• Financial modelling that satisfies funders and stakeholders
• A document that supports capital funding applications to Arts Council England, the Levelling Up Fund, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other sources
• Practical next steps for design development and procurement

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