The release of The Parks Trust's 2023/24 Annual Report
The Parks Trust have today published their Annual Report and Financial Statements for 2023/24.
Despite a challenging and changing economic climate the Trust managed its resources with caution. It’s notable that they’ve reached yet another milestone in their commitment to charitable activities, with expenditures amounting to £15.2 million. This surpasses the previous year’s high of £14.9 million and is largely driven by higher expenditure on the management and maintenance of their greenspaces, which is at the heart of what they deliver as a charity.
This year a diverse portfolio comprising of commercial property portfolio and financial investments has helped The Parks Trust’s investment income reach £11.1 million. The endowments allocated for new land transfers to The Parks Trust amounted to £1.4 million, with them having completed the transfer of a local play area in Whitehouse Park, in addition to securing ownership of three smaller land parcels situated across different areas within the city.
Furthermore, in the 2023/24 financial year, the Trust's net assets increased from £145.6m to £149.7m. This increase was predominantly driven by an upward revaluation of their listed investments, attributable to favourable investment market conditions throughout the latter half of 2023 and extending into 2024. Subsequently the Trust's investment funds increased to £178.1m.
It was another jam-packed year for The Parks Trust, with their teams and volunteers going above and beyond to deliver outstanding work throughout the seasons, living by and consistently driving their values of being committed, inspirational and collaborative to ensure they achieve their mission to provide beautiful parks, woods, and landscapes, to be loved by the people of Milton Keynes forever.
Over the last 12 months there have been so many good things to celebrate and recognise a few of which are highlighted below.
The Parks Trust volunteering programme achieved Investing in Volunteers accreditation.
Campbell Wharf Marina won The Yacht Harbour Association Inland Marina of the Year.
The Parks Trust adopted the coordination of MK Health Walks.
A tree was planted in celebration of coronation of His Majesty King Charles II.
Willen Lake launched its first Winter event, with Willen On Ice that successfully welcomed more than 35,000 visitors and boasted a 400 sq/m real ice rink accompanied by an Apres Ski Bar, festive food and drink stalls, and small selection of fair rides for children.
Read the full Annual Report and Financial Statements for more details.
