Leumi UK provides facility to Investec REALIS and XLB for Bristol office acquisition and refurbishment
Posted: 28 Apr 2026 | Share
Specialist real estate lender Leumi UK has completed a loan to Investec REALIS, the equity strategy launched by Investec in 2024, to support the acquisition and refurbishment of 2 College Square, a 53,000 sq ft multi-let office asset in Bristol. In line with REALIS’ strategy of partnering with best-in-class operating partners, XLB will be responsible for asset and development management.
Constructed in 2011, 2 College Square occupies a prominent position within Bristol’s central business district and provides modern office accommodation with flexible floorplates.
REALIS and XLB plan to undertake a comprehensive programme of refurbishment works at the asset, which will include upgrading on-floor suites, introduction of a roof terrace, repositioning of the common areas, and upgrading the end-of-trip facilities. Upon completion, the asset will target Grade A specification and will boast strong ESG credentials.
The Bristol office market has experienced strong momentum over the past 18-24 months, with > 600,000 sq ft of take-up in 2025, significantly above the five-year average. At the same time, the development pipeline remains constrained, with Grade A vacancy tightening significantly, which is further supporting demand for high-quality, sustainable office space in the city.
Guy Brocklehurst, Relationship Director at Leumi UK, said: “We are thrilled to start our relationship with two market-leading and trusted partners, Investec REALIS and XLB, on what is our first deal with them. This transaction demonstrates Leumi UK’s commitment to delivering bespoke financing solutions promptly. This is a high quality asset which benefits from a prime location within Bristol’s central business district, while the sponsors’ refurbishment programme will further enhance its occupier offering. We look forward to supporting Investec REALIS and XLB as they reposition the asset to capture ongoing demand for high-quality office space in the city.”