Leeds Civic Trust
Annual Report 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
----- End of picture text -----
----- Start of picture text -----
1
----- End of picture text -----
Sponsorship & Support 2025
The Trust gratefully acknowledges the support its work has received from our corporate members as follows:
Gold Corporate Members of Leeds Civic Trust
www.marshallsmill.co.uk
www.landsec.com
www.cjctstudios.com www.evanspropertygroup.com
www.rushbond.co.uk
www.tcs-plc.co.uk
www.wiltondevelopments.co.uk
www.rba-online.co.uk
Corporate Members of Leeds Civic Trust
Hallam Land Management Ltd Harris Partnership Ltd ID Planning Ltd James Hambro & Partners JHK Devonshire Ltd Kinrise
Sound Leisure Ltd Sous Le Nez Ltd Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP Stephen George & Partners LLP Sterling Capitol PLC StudioUrban Sunny Bank Mills Tetra Tech Group Ltd The Leeds Library The Met Hotel University of Leeds Urban Wilderness Ltd Vastint UK Services Ltd W&N Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Walton & Co Westward Care Ltd Whitelocks Ale Tavern Womble Bond Dickinson LLP Wrigleys Solicitors LLP Yorkshire Design Group Zenko City Living Zerum
Acanthus WSM Architects Adair Paxton Addleshaw Goddard LLP AHR Architects Ltd ArkleBoyce Arup Aspinall Verdi Ltd Blacks Solicitors LLP Bowman Riley Architects Ltd. Bracken
Knight Frank LLP Leeds Arts University Leeds Beckett University Leeds BID Leeds Commercial Vehicle Hire Leeds Community Foundation Leeds Conservatoire Leeds Rugby Ltd Lichfields Manning Stainton Mary Randall Vickers & Co Ltd Megan Dobbyn Illustration MEPC Ltd Mood Developments Mott MacDonald Ltd Opera North Ovolo Building Consultancy Parklane Group Potter Space Pullans Quod Ltd
Brewster Bye Architects Buttress Architects Ltd Caddick Developments Ltd Cavendish Citu Group Developments Connect Yorkshire Corstorphine + Wright Leeds Studio Cunniff Design Ltd Curtins
Dacres Commercial Opera North David H Wright Joinery Ovolo Building Consultancy DLA Architecture Ltd Parklane Group DLG Architects Potter Space Dobson Construction Ltd Pullans DPP Planning Quod Ltd Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios re-form landscape architecture ltd Fox Lloyd Jones Royal Armouries Garnett Netherwood Architects Ltd Scarborough Group International Gillespies LLP SimpsonHaugh Architects Gordons LLP Social
Chair’s Introduction
As Chair of Leeds Civic Trust, it is my privilege to reflect on an extraordinary year for us as a charity. 2025 marked our 60th anniversary, a significant milestone and a testament to the ongoing work and unwavering support of our members, volunteers and community.
Station Masterplan. We remain committed to being a strong voice for the public and a trusted partner in preserving and enhancing Leeds’ built environment.
Membership continues to be the lifeblood of the Trust, and this year we were thrilled to welcome new individual and corporate members, including the launch of our under-30s membership. The introduction of our new magazine, The Owl, and the expansion of our Outlook newsletter have allowed us to share more stories and updates with our growing community.
This year, we celebrated six decades of championing the beauty, history, and heritage of Leeds. From the Oral Histories Project to the grand reopening of the Headingley Bear Pit, our anniversary events showcased the remarkable journey of the Trust and the city. The People’s Choice Award at the Leeds Architecture Awards and the Heritage Bus Tour were just some of the highlights that brought our community together to celebrate the past while looking forward to the future.
Our commitment to heritage remains steadfast, as evidenced by the unveiling of five new blue plaques and the impactful projects supported through the Leeds Community Foundation Grants. These initiatives celebrate the people, places, and stories that make Leeds unique, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural understanding.
Our planning efforts have been pivotal in shaping the city’s development, with over 150 applications reviewed and active engagement in major projects like the Elland Road Stadium expansion and Leeds
The objects of the Trust are:
To promote and organise participation and cooperation with stakeholders and partners, including other civic organisations, locally regionally and nationally to further these objects
To stimulate public interest in and care for the beauty, history and unique heritage of the city and metropolitan borough of Leeds including the identification and prioritisation of actions to preserve and enhance the historic built environment of Leeds. environment of Leeds.
President
Jeremy Burton Vice Presidents
To encourage high quality sustainable development; promoting high standards of sustainable urban design, architecture and landscape in development across the whole of Leeds
Peter Baker Lynda Kitching Gold Patron Liz Arnold Silver Patron Robert Dyson Tom Forth Patrons
To encourage the judicious preservation, development and improvement of features of general public amenity within Leeds so as to ensure Leeds is a happy, healthy and sustainable place to live and work
Richard F. Adkinson Margot Brunaus-Friedman Ann Clark Hywel Coleman Robert Collins Chris Hindle Mark Jenkinson Dean Johnson Jennifer Jones David Markham Richard A. Smith Martin Staniforth & Gill Eastabrook Anne Travers
To advance in the appreciation of a people-friendly environment, considering climate change and the need to reduce environmental impacts; and to promote ways of improving the environment within Leeds including high quality green and public spaces, waterways and sustainable transport
All of these activities are
underpinned by our 2025-2030 Vision which will guide the Trust as we seek to fulfil our charitable objectives over the next five years.
As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited to announce our planned move to new office premises at Church House on York Place. This is an exciting change for the Trust, allowing us to relocate to a more modern, accessible space.
Thank you for your support and dedication to Leeds Civic Trust. Together, we will ensure that Leeds remains a happy, healthy, and sustainable place to live and work for generations to come.
Jenna Strover Chair, Leeds Civic Trust
Alanah Coulson Amy Sutcliffe Jodie Stott Martin Hamilton (Director) Ross Horsley Umi Mistry
Trustees
Chair: Jenna Strover Vice Chair: Mike Piet Hon. Treasurer: Georgina Mills Hannah Beard Jim Brettell Lucy Moore John Pike Clifford Stead Antonia Stowe Clare Chapman
Leeds Civic Trust
17/19 Wharf Street, Leeds, LS2 7EQ Telephone: 0113 243 9594 Email : office@leedscivictrust.org.uk Website:
www.leedscivictrust.org.uk Facebook: @leedscivictrust Instagram: LeedsCivicTrust Charitable Incorporated Organisation Charity No: 1014362
2
3
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
2025 Committee and Group Members
Photography
Events
Chair: Jane Taylor Joan Hick Roderic Parker Mark Parry Garance Rawinsky Meryll Wilford
Chair: Andrew Fahey Lisa Brown Jane Collins Anthony Hicks Liz Samways Igor Sivolob
Finance and General Purposes Chair: John Pike Jeremy Burton Cath Black Georgina Mills Jenna Strover Jane Taylor
Planning
Purposes Chair: Mike Piet Chair: John Pike Peter Baker Jeremy Burton David Barraclough Cath Black Howard Dews Georgina Mills Paul Exley Jenna Strover Jeff Gleisner Jane Taylor Tim Leader Tony Ray Heritage Watch Caroline Newton Chair: Clare Chapman Colin Woodward Peter Baker Clive Woods Becky Clarkson Jeremy Thompson Christine Osborne Sam Yates Garance Rawinsky Karmjit Lyal Tony Ray Adrian Jones Helen Sanders Robert Collins Jenna Strover Lesley Slaney Joe Turner Jim Brettell Meryll Wilford Cliff Stead Clive Woods Claude St Arroman Ruth Gelletlie Heritage and Culture Luke Tyler Chair: Lucy Moore Robert Sharples
Chair: Lucy Moore Alex Fitzpatrick Katy Frankland Jordan Keighley Sophia Lambert Lisa McIntyre Simon Morgan
Transport and Liveable Leeds
Chair: Ruth Gelletlie Howard Dews John Gibson Adrian Jones Karmjit Lyal Mark Parry Mike Piet David Smith Clive Woods Jeffrey Turner
Heritage Open Days
Chair: Meryll Wilford Jan Farrar Joan Hicks Roderic Parker Garance Rawinsky Sam Yates
House Committee
Chair: Richard Voss Graham Castle
Library Cataloguing
Barbara Bailey Igor Sivolob
Walks Season
Guides:
Robert Dyson Martin Hamiliton Joyce Hill Roderic Parker Clifford Stead Steve Ward. Back-markers: Ann Castle Jane Collins Marie Glover Joan Hick Roderic Parker Garance Rawinksy Meryll Wilford.
Community Groups affiliated to Leeds Civic Trust
Aireborough Civic Society Alwoodley Community Association
Far Headingley Village Society Friends of Middleton Park Friends of Roundhay Park Friends of Temple Newsam Gledhow Valley Conservation Area Group
Horsforth Civic Society Little Woodhouse Community Association
Newlay Conservation Society Pudsey & District Civic Society
Thackray Museum The Friends of Lawnswood Cemetery Thoresby Society Weetwood Residents’ Association Wetherby Civic Society
Our Vision – a message from Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton
At the start of this annual report, you will see a reminder of our charitable objectives. Although we updated them a few years ago when we converted to become a CIO, the basic principles have remained constant throughout our 60 year history. This annual report is a review of some of the practical actions we take to ensure that we meet these objectives.
Our ambitions:
Developing Leeds - promoting high standards of design.
Opportunities for change
Moving around Leeds - improving sustainable transport for leisure, employment and education.
More representative – ensuring that our members, supporters and partners better reflect the demographic make up of the city
Greening Leeds - advocating high quality public spaces and enlivened waterways.
More visible – communicating more effectively with people, decision makers and key organisations in the city
At the start of 2025, we decided to expand on these principles by revising and renewing our vision document. We first produced this in 2020, and adopted a revised version at our last AGM. In it, we set out a series of statements that guide the work that we do. Everything you read in this document is a practical outcome of these aspirations which are summarised here:
Celebrating Leeds - we celebrate the city’s rich history by learning from, preserving, and interpreting its physical and social heritage while creating legacies for future generations.
More influential – Strengthening our relationships with key individuals and organisations
Martin Hamilton Leeds Civic Trust, Director
----- Start of picture text -----
leedscivictrust.org.uk
Our
Vision
2025-2030
----- End of picture text -----
4
5
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
60th Anniversary In 1965, Leeds printer Charles H Crabtree endowed the Trust with a gift of £50,000 more than half a million pounds in today’s money. In the 60 years that have followed, our work may have changed but our founding principles have not.
Oral Histories Project
The Bear Pit
Leeds Civic Trust purchased The Bear Pit on Cardigan Road, Headingley in 1966. This year we fulfilled an ambition to restore the structure and improve accessibility. A grand opening was followed in the summer by a teddy bears picnic
Walks Season
Our biggest ever walks programme – showcasing the changing face of our city over the decades.
People’s Choice Awards
A special people’s prize was awarded as part of the Leeds Architecture Awards (which we co-organised) recognising the “best” building constructed since 1965 (The Roger Stevens Building won).
Lunch Time Lectures
Dr Kevin Grady’s February lecture series which included some of the key projects pursued by Leeds Civic Trust over the last 60 years, generated £1000 in donations.
Heritage Bus Tour
A heritage bus tour on a 1960 bus (which remarkably included an original 1970s advertisement for a Leeds Civic Trust walk guide!).
6 Leeds Civic Trust’ 60th birthday cake
7
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Facts and Figures
Events and partnerships
Our events are one of the most important ways we connect with our members and with the wider city. Over the past year, we’ve brought people together through a varied programme that reflects our shared interest in Leeds’ buildings, stories, heritage and future.
We’ve been pleased to offer more opportunities for members and corporate members to meet, learn and exchange ideas. This has included more corporate events and the launch of our brand-new Future Leaders Lunches, which are designed for more junior staff.
Our events are becoming more and more popular, and many of them fill up rapidly.
Our events help to sustain a strong, informed and welcoming community, bringing people together in ways that reflect our vision of celebrating Leeds’ heritage, encouraging wider participation and strengthening connections across the city.
57 2087 8 Events Tickets Members hosted in sold only 2025 events
16 Corporate member events
Pullan’s 140th Exhibition
Teddy Bears Picnic
Guided Walk at Wellington Place
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Oral Histories Exhibition at Left Bank
8 Q&A at LAA ceremony Howard Assembly Rooms
9
Facts and Figures
151 32 34 Planning Objections Supported applications made analysed
Eastgate Quarter - the largest brownfield development site in the city centre core
Tiltyard aerial view
The LUFC stadium development and opportunities for wider regeneration
We visited the newly refurbished Met Hotel
The Built Environment
The Trust’s interest in the built environment is expressed through the activities of our Planning Committee and Heritage Watch Group. This brings together a combination of experts and lay people to consider a wide range of projects from listed buildings and heritage at risk to housing, city centre student developments and office schemes. Our Planning Committee considered over 150 planning applications during the course of the year but we also received a number of presentations from architects and developers including proposals to expand Leeds United’s Elland Road Stadium, plans to create a new conference venue within the Royal Armouries Tiltyard and briefings on the short medium and long term plans for Leeds Railway Station, and we began to engage with developers about Eastgate – the largest brownfield site within the city centre retail core.
Our heritage interests were piqued by a presentation about the proposal to convert the Old Medical School into an innovation hub. We visited Leeds Town Hall and Morley Town Hall – two fascinating regeneration projects, and were involved in the recently revived 4x4 discussion series. We attend the Property Forum and are members of the Quality Places and Spaces and Waterfront Groups – all organised by the Leeds Chamber of Commerce. We also sought to engage with key decision makers through our regular meetings with senior officers from the Development Directorate at Leeds City Council.
Although our impact is hard to measure, we hope that our role as both sounding board for key partners and a voice for the makes positive difference to the changing city landsc ape.
10
11
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Transport and Placemaking
The Trust’s interest in transport is supported via our Transport and Liveable Leeds Group. Experts such as retired council chief officers, project managers and academics combine with lay ~~people to respond to transport developments across the city~~ whilst pro-actively advocating new interventions that support and underpin the Trust’s long standing transport vision, and imagining a city that is more liveable.
The Trust has a close relationship with Leeds City Council and the Leeds Chamber of Commerce (through formal and informal interactions) and a growing relationship with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority through quarterly meetings about the Mass Transit Scheme – one of a small number of stakeholders who they engage with at a strategic level.
Building on our report “Imagine and Excellent Bus Service for Leeds” we hope to use our findings to infl ~~uence the~~ development and r ~~o~~ l ~~l~~ o ~~ut o~~ f bus franchising in the city.
We commented on ~~a numb~~ er of local transport propos ~~a~~ ls in specific locations, ~~policies~~ (for example the Local Plan) that have a transport co ~~mp~~ o ~~nen~~ t, and also offered our views on national policy, for example the Department for Transport’s ~~Integrated Strategy.~~
Our Transport Vision underlines the importance of viewing transport and planning in tandem, and during the year we considered the implications of major developments (for example the now approved Leeds United Development) on the wider transport network.
Our long standing interest in the Eastside of the city centre is an example of how we want to see our city as a more “liveable” place. We were pleased support the refresh of Penny Pocket Park in partnership with Leeds City Council, Wades Charity and Leeds Minster. We were delighted that our original vision for Eastside, created by Urban Wilderness, was shortlisted for a Landscape Institute National Award. We also engaged with Leeds City Council to consider improvements to the Park Square area of the city centre.
Leeds Civic Trust has been a consistent supporter of mass transit for Leeds over the decades. We are working closely with the Mayoral Authority to help them deliver their vision.
Leeds Civic Trust has a longstanding relationship with Landscape Architects Urban Wilderness who worked with us to develop our vision for the Eastside of Leeds. Their plans were shortlisted for an award from the 2025 Institute of Landscape national awards
A key component of our vision for Eastside is re-imagining and improving the area adjacent to Leeds Minster known as Penny Pocket Park. We were pleased to part fund a study by Groundwork to revive this important piece of city centre greenspace
12
13
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
The Trust’s Financess
After nearly 10 years as Treasurer, Robert Solyom stepped down from his position during the year. We thank him for his service and wish him well in the future. We were delighted to welcome Trust member and chartered accountant Georgina Mills, who was co-opted as Treasurer during the course of the year. Georgina will put herself forward for election at the 2026 AGM.
Funding Source
Leeds Civic Trust derives most of its income from a combination of donations and legacies, membership subscriptions and investment income. Donations and legacies make up the majority of the Trust’s income: total income excluding membership fees totalled £317.816. This represented a return to “normal” levels of income after an unexpectedly large royalty receipt in the previous financial year.
Whilst the Trustees expect legacy and donation income to continue at the current rate for the foreseeable future, they are mindful of the need to broaden the Trust’s funding base. This subject will be addressed in the coming year.
Nonetheless, in the Trust’s 60th anniversary year, progress was made in obtaining more funding from membership subscriptions, enjoying a 20% increase in income from individual and corporate membership subscriptions combined to £46,716 (£39,635 in 2024).
Sustainability
The Trust holds significant reserves to reflect the uncertain nature of its income sources. In addition to a general fund, a new fund known as the “resilience fund” is in place. This will ultimately be used to provide an income for the Trust to support core costs should legacy income decline in future years.
Legacies
Two strong supporters of the Trust, former chair Olav Arnold and Professor Neville Rowell sadly passed away. Both left legacies to the Trust. Since both of these people were strong supporters of the Blue Plaques scheme, their legacies were added to the Trust’s Blue Plaques Fund which is used to support the purchase and installation of blue plaques where no sponsor can be found.
Future investments
The Trustees have identified a number of areas for investment in the coming years.
These reflect and underpin the Trust’s overarching priorities as expressed in the 2025-2030 Vision.
Specific future investment priorities include:
•The creation of a new “Volunteer Co-ordinator” post to support, manage and monitor volunteer activity at the Trust which will reinforce the Trust’s aim to be more representative and visible
•Grant support to Leeds City Council to create a joint Conservation Officer post to support the Trust’s charitable objectives in support of the historic built environment
•Further partnership working and grant support as part of the “Greening Leeds” ambition
•Consideration of a third round of community grants (commencing in the 26/27 financial year) to support the Trust’s aim to be a more representative organisation
•Additional expenditure including one-off capital expenditure and rental and service charges arising from taking out a lease on proposed new premises
Facts and Figures
£406,693 Total income for the year Family Event
£409,998 Total expenditure for the year
----- Start of picture text -----
New Information Board at the Bear Pit
----- End of picture text -----
6 Total number of staff
£5,180 Blue Plaque Donation Fund Value
Elizabeth Garnett Blue Plaque Unveiling Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
14
15
Membership
We wouldn’t be where we are without the support of our members. Their involvement and commitment help the Trust to thrive, and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who joins the Trust.
Over the past year, we’ve welcomed many new members, and we were pleased to introduce our new under-30s membership. This has helped us connect with younger people who care about Leeds and want to get involved in the city’s future.
We’ve continued to expand our membership offer. A big highlight has been the launch of our new magazine, The Owl. We’ve also expanded Outlook, adding two extra editions each year so we can share more news, ideas and stories about Leeds and the work of the Trust.
Trust membership includes our monthly Outlook e-newsletter, priority booking and discounts for events, invitations to members-only activities, printed copies of the Annual Report, the Heritage Open Days brochure, The Owl, AGM voting rights and, of course, the Leeds Civic Trust pin badge!
Through the support of members, the Trust is able to bring people together around a shared interest in our city.
56 New members
Members at our 60th birthday party
517 Individual members
Leeds Civic Trust AGM 2025 Launching the Under 30s Membership
Heritage Open Days Booklet 2025
16
17
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Corporate Membership
This year our total membership increased to 92 with 27 new or returning members.
Over the past year, we’ve continued to build and refresh what we offer our corporate members, creating more opportunities to meet, share ideas and take part in conversations about Leeds. This included expanding our corporate lunches and introducing new ways for members to connect with one another throughout the year.
We hosted a range of well-attended gatherings, including a drinks reception at White Cloth Hall and a Leader’s Breakfast with the new Leeds City Council CEO, Ed Whiting and Cllr Jonathan Pryor, the Council’s Deputy Leader. These events offered space for open discussion and helped strengthen links between organisations
As mentioned in our events round-up, we also launched our Future Leaders lunches, which were a real highlight. Held at Farrand’s Bar, they featured relaxed conversations with Sinead Rocks (Channel 4), Andrew Cooper (Leeds BID) and Angela Barnicle (Leeds City Council). It was particularly encouraging to see so many early-career professionals coming together to learn from one another and build new connections.
We also launched a small podcast series with corporate members marking milestones of their own, including Potterspace, Harris Partnership and Walton & Co, Finishing with a special Q&A with Pullans as they celebrated 140 years.
Through this programme of activity, our corporate members help us encourage informed debate, support future leaders, and bring together different parts of the city to think about its future. We’re very grateful for their continued support.
92 Corporate members
Future Leaders Lunch
27 New corporate members
Future Leaders Lunch With Angela Barnicle
Pullans 140 Years Event
18
19
Corporate Members at Our Summer Social 2025
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
A history of providing care choices to suit your needs.
Offering residential care to specialised dementia support or short respite stays. Retirement Apartments, with care and support onsite 24/7, also available in Headingley and Roundhay. Find out more today!
Headingley Hall Pennington Court Follow for our 5 Shire Oak Rd Hunslet Hall Rd latest news and Leeds LS6 2DD Leeds LS11 6TT activities Southlands The Cedars Wetherby Rd Church Side Leeds LS8 2JU Methley LS26 9BH 0113 331 4830 westwardcare.co.uk
----- Start of picture text -----
Pin Yard, Leeds White Rose Centre, Leeds
Schneider Electric, Scarborough Wakefield Civic Quarter
The Springs, Leeds Integral, Leeds
----- End of picture text -----
Wakefield Manchester Milton Keynes Reading London Harrogate Edinburgh
20
21
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Communications
This year, we’ve focused on connecting more closely with our members and the wider Leeds community. Our communications share stories about the city’s people, places, spaces and heritage.
Our written communications have been expanded to include “The Owl”, a new magazine. Outlook has become a monthly e-newsletter and we took the opportunity this year to refresh the design of our Annual Report.
Our growing social media presence has brought more people into the conversation, sharing memories, joining discussions, and discovering new ways to get involved.
Our aim is simple: to keep Leeds Civic Trust’s work visible, accessible, and to give people in Leeds the chance to be informed, involved and infuential in developing their city.
90 3032 1060 New sign New followers Social media ups to our on social post across all supporters media channels mailing list
109,664 2.2 Millionrms.
Number of views on our most popular social media post
Social media post views across all channels
The Owl Issue One
----- Start of picture text -----
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
----- End of picture text -----
----- Start of picture text -----
The most viewed social media post of 2025
----- End of picture text -----
Social Media Squares 2025
22
23
Bringing Leeds heritage to life
Step Back in Time at Leeds Central Station!
The museum is free to enjoy and open: Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm
Discover the hidden gem of Leeds’s industrial past at the Wagon Lifting Hoist Mini Museum , in the heart of Wellington Place. This Grade II listed treasure , once part of the bustling Leeds Central Station, closed its doors in 1967 but earned a prestigious Leeds Civic Trust blue plaque in 2011.
Saturday & Sunday 10am – 4pm Scan here for more info:
The museum brings history to life with original artefacts, and captivating stories from over a century of railway heritage. Explore authentic sounds, striking photographs, and cherished memories of a station that shaped the city.
Take a visit and journey back to the golden age of Leeds railways.
Wellington Place, Leeds, LS1 4AP
----- Start of picture text -----
AspinallVerdi provide fully integrated
property development, regeneration and
town planning consultancy services to a
wide range of regional and national
clients across both the public and
private sectors.
Our Services
S106 Viability Assessments
Public sector funding applications
Option and feasibility studies
Development agency – sale & acquisitions
Property Market Research
Valuation
Regeneration Strategies
Leeds, London, Liverpool, Newcastle,
Birmingham & Manchester
info@aspinallverdi.co.uk
0113 243 6644
----- End of picture text -----
----- Start of picture text -----
Building Expertise
CHARTERED BUILDING SURVEYORS
Specialists in Pathology, Drone Surveys,
Conservation & Expert Witness Services
Ovolo
Leeds Civic
Proud to support Leeds Civic Trust in Trust
celebrating the city’s heritage & design Blue Plaques Fund
NATIONWIDE FROM Leeds Civic Trust’s Blue Plaques
LEEDS & LONDON OFFICES celebrate the city’s history, but we
need your help to ensure their
future!
0330 133 9470 Our Blue Plaques Fund will raise
money to install new plaques,
info@ovolobc.com restore existing ones, and promote
Leeds’ incredible heritage.
www.ovolobc.com
www.leedscivictrust.org.uk
----- End of picture text -----
info@wellingtonplace.co.uk
24
25
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Organised by a consortium of Leeds Civic Trust, Leeds City Council, Leeds Society of Architects and RIBA, this celebration of architecture returned to the city. We exhibited the shortlisted schemes at Leeds Corn Exchange during Heritage Open Days before returning to the Howard Assembly Rooms to announce the winners. Considering design but also sustainability and, for the first time, accessibility, these awards are intended to showcase the best architecture the city has to offer.
This year’s big winner was the Hyde Park Picture House described by judges as “a truly iconic venue for the people of Leeds”, with architects Page\Park winning Best Adapted Building before being awarded project of the year.
Once again, the ceremony was hosted by journalist Andrew Edwards, this was a celebration not only of the city’s best architecture but, via a panel discussion with the judges, an appreciation of how the city has changed in recent year and a look forward with hope for the future.
Facts and Figures
Judges: Martin Farrington (ex-Leeds City Council). Prue Chiles (University of Newcastle). Mark Latham (Urban Splash).
13 8 Shortlisted Awards schemes presented
900 3 Commendations People voted given for the LCT people’s choice award
The winning entries:
Hyde Park Picture House. Winner: Adapted Buildings and Conservation’ and ‘Project of the Year’.
Carr Manor Community School Hub. Winner: New buildings with a construction value of less than £10 million.
Scape Merrion Street. Winner: New buildings with a construction value of more than £10 million
Hibiscus Rising. Joint winner: Public realm, landscape and public art.
Roger Stevens building. People’s Choice winner.
The Junction. Joint winner: Public realm, landscape and public art.
26
27
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
Blue Plaques
Since the scheme began in 1987, the Trust has unveiled over 200 blue plaques, each helping to raise the profile of the city’s history and unique heritage. This year saw five new additions, from fields as diverse as recreation and religion, but all celebrating improvements in public welfare and the positive impact of their subjects on the lives of people in Leeds and beyond.
20 7 5 Plaque New Blue plaques nominations plaques unveiled received approved
Plaque 202: Professor Patrick Nuttgens CBE (19302004), a trailblazing figure in education, television broadcasting, planning and conservation, whose influence can still be felt across Leeds Beckett University, the city, and the nation.
Plaque 203: The TV Harrison Sports Ground, or ‘The Wortley Wembley’, a place where generations of Leeds children have played and trained, including future Leeds United legends Paul Madeley, Paul Reaney, David Batty,
Plaque 204: Gipton Fire Station, which once housed the busiest working fire crew in the country and is today the site of a thriving community hub for the people of Gipton, Harehills, Seacroft and further afield.
Plaque 206: Rev Dr Walter Farquhar Hook (1798-1875), a visionary church leader and social reformer, who rebuilt and reopened the Parish Church (now Leeds Minster) in 1841, and provided a model for how the Church of England should respond to the needs of the people.
Plaque 205: Elizabeth Garnett (1839-1921), a remarkable Otley woman, whose life and work brought dignity, education, and compassion to the ‘Navvies’ – labourers who carried out major civil engineering projects whose role in building Victorian Britain has been under-appreciated for so long.
28
29
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
TV Harrison Sport Ground Blue Plaque Unveiling
Leeds Community Foundation Grants
Leeds Civic Trust is proud to have partnered with Leeds Community Foundation to deliver a Community Heritage Fund. Since its launch in 2021, the programme has aimed to support grassroots projects that celebrate the people, places and stories that make Leeds unique.
In 2024-2025, round 2 of the fund focused on helping community groups and local residents to develop projects that offered a true “Celebration of Place.” Leeds Civic Trust invested £108,000 into these two-year community projects supporting 6 organisations. From transforming green spaces and honouring community traditions to creative projects that capture personal stories, this funding has enabled activity across Leeds.
Highlights include garden redevelopment at Hollybush, African dance heritage workshops, a new family play space in Beeston, heritage walks and exhibitions in Little London, cultural storytelling in Harehills, and a stained-glass community artwork in Halton Moor. The six organisations are Yorkshire Contemporary (formerly The Tetley), The Retreat to Rebirth Project, Music House, Skippko Arts Team, RETAS Leeds and The Conservation Volunteers
Over the Summer Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton and Engagement Manager Jodie Stott visited each organisation to see the work first hand and be involved with the activities and workshops that have been created.
Facts and Figures
£107,824 £17,970
6
Grants Invested in Average grant awarded community size over two heritage years
According to Leeds Community Foundation’s research, These projects have
495 398 207 People Participants Residents felt engaged felt a a deepened
Participants Residents felt felt a a deepened strengthened cultural belonging understanding
Yorkshire Contemporary Green Play Space
Rhubarb Recipe Book Created by TCV Hollybush
Member of the Skippko Arts Community
Community Dance Group Retreat to Rebirth
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
30
31
Skippko Arts Community Workshop
human-spaces.co.uk
----- Start of picture text -----
Experience the difference
----- End of picture text -----
Winner of Fit Out of The Year at Insider Property Awards 2025 Yorkshire, situated in a BCO Award winning building.
A fully serviced premium working environment based in the heart of Leeds City Centre. humanSpaces combines exceptional design, sustainable materials, a contemporary aesthetic and excellent customer service.
----- Start of picture text -----
A development by
----- End of picture text -----
32
33
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
154 308 13 Events Listed daily LCT grants Heritage registered events over were awarded in the Leeds the 10 day to support district festival new family Open oriented trails 784 6000 84 Days
People Booklets were attended and distributed participated in the family trails
Organisers attended the HODs booklet launch
Heritage Open Days is the UK’s biggest celebration of heritage and culture, and each year Leeds Civic Trust proudly coordinates the festival across the city. In 2025, Leeds featured 154 unique events some repeated across the 10 day programme to create an impressive 308 listed daily activities.
The Trust supported new family-friendly trails with 13 grants, attracting 784 young explorers and their families. To help spread the word, 6,000 booklets were shared citywide, and over 70 organisers gathered at Hyde Park Picture House for the Heritage Open Days launch
Guided Walk at The Wagon Hoist Museum
A Family at Leeds Libaries During Heritage Open Days
34
LCT & HODs Team at the Heritage Open Days Launch 35
Leeds Civic Trust Annual Report 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
INVESTING [in] LEEDS
Proud to support Leeds Civic Trust
0113 201 8899 | RUSHBOND.CO.UK
----- End of picture text -----
36
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1014362
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FOR
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
Page
Report of the Trustees 1 to 6
Independent Examiner's Report 7
Statement of Financial Activities 8
Balance Sheet 9
Notes to the Financial Statements 10 to 21
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 22 to 23
----- End of picture text -----
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
The Trusteespresent their report with the financialstatementsof the Trust for the year ended 31st August 2025. The Trustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandReportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommendedPracticeapplicableto charities
preparing their accountsin accordancewith the FinancialReportingStandard applicablein the UK and Republicof Ireland (FRS 102)
(effective 1 January 2019).
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
The objectives and aims of the Trust are as follows:
a) to stimulate public interest in and care for the beauty, history and heritage of the City of Leeds and locality,
b)toencouragehighqualitysustainabledevelopmentandpromotestandardsofsustainableurbandesign,architecture,and town
planning,
c) to encourage the judicious preservation, development, and improvement of features of general public amenity,
d)toadvanceappreciationofapeoplefriendlyenvironment,andpromotewaysofimprovingtheenvironmentwithin Leeds,
including green and public spaces, waterways, and sustainable transport,
e) to promote and organise co-operation in the achievement of these objectives
Public benefit
Withreferencetothedutyinsection17(5)oftheCharitiesAct2011,theTrusteesconfirmthattheyhavereferredtothe Charity
Commission'sguidanceonpublicbenefitwhenreviewingtheTrust'saimsandobjectivesandinplanningitscurrentand future
activities. The achievements and activities outlined in this report demonstrate the public benefit arising from the Trust's activities.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
TrusteesadoptedanewoverarchingvisionfortheTrustcoveringtheperiod2025-2030,comprisingfourambitionsand three
opportunitiesfor change.The visionamplifiesthe Trust'scharitableobjectivesand providesa strategicframeworkwithin which the
Trust will operate over the next five years:
Our ambitions
1. Developing Leeds
We are committedto fosteringthe highest standards of sustainableurban design, architectureand landscape throughoutthe whole
of the city. We advocateinnovativedesign, climatefriendly development,infrastructureand facilities,ensuring a balanced approach
to the city's commercial,residentialand social needs. We consider placemakingand master planning to be the key building blocks of
sustainable development.
2. Moving around Leeds
Weaimtoimprovetravelwithin,toandfromLeeds,ensuringpeoplecaneasilyaccessawiderangeofemployment,leisure and
educationalopportunities.Wechampionsustainabletransportsolutionsthatenablepeopleandorganisationstobe productive
whilstenhancingthebuiltandnaturalenvironment,enablingpeopletoleadhealthylivesandallowingthecitytomeet its
environmental obligations.
3. Greening Leeds
Wepromotehigh-qualitypublicspacesandenlivenedwaterways.Weaimtoidentifyandlobbyfornewpublicopenspaces. We
prioritise active travel and support efforts to further develop the river, canal and becks as focal points for green corridors.
4. Celebrating Leeds
Wecelebratethecity'srichhistorybylearningfrom,preserving,andinterpretingitsphysicalandsocialheritagewhile creating
legaciesforfuturegenerations.WeaimtouncoverandsharethestoriesofLeeds'speople,challengehistoricalassumptions, and
considerthelong-termimpactofwhatwearedoingtoday.Wewillfocusonpreservingthehistoricbuiltenvironment and
identifying tomorrow's heritage.
Page 1
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Opportunities for change
Leeds Civic Trust seeks to make a meaningful impact across the city. To achieve this, we aim to become:
1. More representative
We will take actionto ensure our members,supporters,and partners better reflectthe diverse demographicmakeup of Leeds. New
approaches will be explored to involve the people of Leeds more actively in our work and decision-making processes.
2. More visible
We will communicatemore effectivelywith people, decision makers and key organisationsacross the city. By clearly articulating our
priorities, activities, and achievements, we will ensure greater awareness of our work and impact.
3. More influential
Wewillstrengthenourrelationshipswithkeyindividualsandorganisationstomaximiseourinfluence.Thisincludesreviewing our
connections and finding the right balance between collaboration and constructive challenge to amplify our impact.
Theseambitionsandopportunitiesaredeliveredthroughacombinationof"businessasusual"activitiesandalimitednumber of
SMART strategic objectives which look at short, medium and long-term activity.
Key activities during the 2025 financial year
2025markedthe 60th anniversaryof LeedsCivicTrust'sformation.A number of the Trust'sactivitiesservedto celebrateand mark
this significant milestone culminating in more than 2000 tickets issued for events that took place during the year.
Someofthekeyactivitiesareoutlinedbelow.A companionreportpublishedalongsidetheseaccountsprovidesmore information
about the impact of the Trust's work.
Developing Leeds
We worked with the Leeds Society of Architects,Leeds City Council and RIBA to mount the biennial Leeds ArchitectureAwards. New
outputsincludedapre-eventexhibitionofshortlistedschemeswhichtookplaceattheLeedsCornExchangeworkingtowards an
awardsceremonyattheHowardAssemblyRooms.Around1,000peoplevotedforthe"people'sprize"withtheRoger Stevens
Building being nominated as their favourite of the last 60 years.
OurPlanningCommittee,whichmeetstwiceamonth,receivedpresentationsfromdevelopersandarchitectsandcommented on
significantandimportantschemeswithintheLeedsMetropolitanDistrict.Thesemeetingsareaugmentedbyformaland informal
meetings with key stakeholders including Leeds City Council to further the Trust's objectives.
Moving around Leeds
TheTrust'sinterestintransportissupportedbyamonthlymeetingoftheTransportandLiveableLeedsGroup.They received
presentationsfrom externalorganisations,including Councillorsand Councilofficers,on a varietyof topics and respond to local and
nationalconsultationswhere the Trust has an interest and develop positionson key transportissues affectingthe city. The Trust has
thisyearestablishedatrustedrelationshipwiththeWestYorkshireCombinedAuthorityinrelationtoproposalsformass transit
through regular officer level meetings.
Greening Leeds
WecontinuedtodevelopourvisionfortheEastsideofLeeds,workingwithLeedsCityCouncil,theWadesTrustandthe Leeds
Minstertoprovidefinancialsupporttore-imagineofPennyPocketParkandenvirons.Wewerepleasedthatarchitects Urban
Wilderness were shortlisted for a national Landscape Institute Prize for their work on the Eastside Vision.
Page 2
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Celebrating Leeds
We completedthe restorationof the Bear Pit, a Victorianstructure purchased by Leeds Civic Trust in 1966. Followingfinal handover
bythecontractors,therestorationprojectwasmarkedbyanopeningceremonyandfurthereventsduringtherestoftheyear as
part of the Trust's commitment to make the site available for members of the public.
OurBluePlaquesschemeachievedanimportantmilestonewithour200thplaqueunveiled.Wewerepleasedthatournew Blue
PlaquesDonationsFund (whichsupportsunfundedplaquenominations)attracteda mixtureofoneoffand regulardonations. Two
bequests(fromtheestatesofOlavArnoldandNevilleRowell)wereassignedtothisfund.OlavArnoldinstigatedthescheme in
1987, and Neville Rowell was an enthusiastic funder of last resort particularly in the early days of the scheme.
TheTrustcontinuedtoco-ordinateHeritageOpenDays.Thiscelebrationofheritagesawafurtherincreaseinparticipants and
openings and significant publicity for our work.
LeedsCivicTrustworkedwith key heritageinstitutionsfromacrossthe cityto fund and developa HeritageFrameworkforthe city.
Thisdocumentwillidentifywhatwevalueinourheritagewithinthecityandsupportorganisationsacrossthecityin the
development of external funding bids.
More representative, visible and influential
Member and partner liaison
The Trust worked with many stakeholders and partners throughout the year to help deliver the Trust's objectives.
The Leeds CommunityFoundationadministersthe Trust'sCommunityHeritageFund - grant schemeworthover£100,000over two
years. These projects,which will have tangible outcomesincluding reclaimedgardens and artefacts,enable the Trust to reach out to
new partners. A series of visits to observe the projects was undertaken.
FortheTrust's60thanniversary,wefocusedonincreasingmembershiptargeting60newindividualmembersanda significant
increasein our corporatemembershipnumbers during the calendaryear. By the end of the financialyear,we had gained nearly 50
newindividualmembersand morethan20neworreturningcorporatemembers.Wealsobegantoseetakeup ofournew under
30'smembershipcategory.We successfullylauncheda "futureleaders"networkinglunchinitiativetoencourageengagement with
junior staff from our corporate partners.
OureventsprogrammeaimstounderpintheTrust'scharitableobjectives.Thisincludedourlargesteverywalk programme
incorporatinghistoricalandcontemporarysubjects,severalvisitstobuildingrestorationprojects,awebinarseries considering
energyefficiencyinbuildingsandavisittoaco-housingscheme.Weemployedaninternformuchof2025todeliveran oral
histories project for the Trust's 60th anniversary.
Communications
TheTrustusessocialmediatocommunicateitsworktothewiderworld.Thisisincreasinglyeffective,anddataanalytics bear
testamentto its reach.A decisionwas taken to retire"The Outlook"publicationin hard copyformatand to replacewith a monthly
e-newsletter.Membersandsupporterswillnowreceiveanewmagazinepublication"TheOwl"onatwice-yearlybasis.This has
allowedtheTrusttoreverttoanAnnualReportformatwhichwillbepublishedalongsidetheseannualaccounts,andwhich will
expand on this summary report.
Corporate strategy and planning
TosupporttheTrustsnew2025-2030vision,areviewoftheTrust'scommitteesandgroupswasinitiated.Thisaimsto ensure
streamlineddecision-makingthatalignswiththeTrust'sobjectivesandprovidesmoreappropriategroupingstoguidethe Trust's
voluntary work.
FollowinganearlierresolutionbyTrusteestoseeknewaccommodationfortheTrust,astudywascommissionedbya property
agenttoidentifyashortlistofpotentialnewpremises.ThisworkconcludedanditisanticipatedthattheTrustwillmoveto new
leasedaccommodationduring2026.Anoptionsappraisalfor17-19WharfStreet(inwhichtheTrustholdsthefreehold)was also
undertaken. This study will guide decision-making on the future of the building.
Volunteering
Volunteersarethe bedrockofthe Trustsworkand supportthe deliveryofourcharitableobjectives.Ourwebsitewasrevamped in
thepreviousyeartoprovideamorewelcomingandaccessibleentrypointforthoseinterestedingetttingmoreinvolvedin the
Trust.
Page 3
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial position
During the year, the income totalled £406,693 (2024: £601,802) against expenditure of £409,998 (2024: £309,785).
TheTrustalsorecognisedgainsoninvestmentsof£45,842(2024:gainsof£53,484)leadingtoanoverallsurplusfortheyear of
£45,537 (2024: £345,501).
Principal funding sources
MostoftheTrust'sincomeisderivedfromacombinationofdonationsandlegacies,membershipsubscriptionsand investment
income.
Donations and legacies
IncomefromdonationsandlegaciescontinuedtoconstituteasignificantcomponentoftheTrust'soverallincome.Total income
excludingmembershipsubscriptionstotalled£317,816.Thisreflecteda returnto "normal"levelsafteran unexpectedlylarge HADS
royalty receipt in the previous financial year.
Membership subscriptions
Inthelastannualaccounts,itwasnotedthatTrusteesweremindfuloftheneedtodiversifyincome.TheTrust's60th anniversary
campaignwas used as a platformto attractnew corporateand individualmembers.Thisresultedin a 20%increasein the value of
overall subscription receipts to £46,716 (2024: £39,635).
Investment income
Investmentincomefromthe funds managedby JamesHambro& Partnersis nowshownin the accountsseparatefromthe overall
investmentportfoliovalue.Itstotalvalueforthefinancialyearwas£12,411.Thisincomewasre-invested.Incomefrom cash
deposits was £10,617 (2004: £11,386)
Other income
Other income was derived from activities such as book sales, event income, plaque unveilings and Annual Report advertising.
Financial risks, uncertainties and reserves policy
TheTrust'sreservespolicywascreatedtoaddressaninherentweaknessintheTrust'slongtermfinancialposition:thefact that
most of its income is derived from a single fluctuating source. This key risk is acknowledged in the Trust's risk register.
The Trustees reviewed the reserves policy and reaffirmedthe policy to maintainfree reserves, which are unrestrictedgeneral funds,
excludingtangiblefixed assets,at a levelsufficientto covercharitableand supportcostsfor a minimumof three years,this being a
leveltoenablecontinuanceoftheTrust'sactivitiesintheeventofasignificantdeclineinincome,andwhilstalternate income
sources were sought.
Inaddition,aprinciplehasbeenadoptedthatfreereservesinexcessofthislevelwillbeallocatedoverthelifetimeofits current
operational strategy - The Trust Vision 2025-2030 - in support of the Trust's objectives.
Long term sustainability
Every financialyear, Trustees will aim to earmark a sum equivalent to 30% of the value of receipts from the HADS royalty scheme to
support the long-termsustainabilityof the Trust.Trusteeshave agreed that at least 50% of this sum will be investedin a "resilience
investmentfund," currentlymanagedby JamesHambro& Partnersalongsidebut separateto the generalfund. Fund objectives are
initiallyforgrowthbutultimatelycouldprovideanincomefortheTrustiftheTrust'sincomefromitsprincipalfunding source
declines.
Up to 50% of the sum may be used to establish new or increase existing restrictedfunds which will be used to support the long-term
viability of the Trust.
For the 2024/2025 financial year, Trustees decided to allocate the whole sum to the resilience investment fund.
The Trusteesare thus satisfiedthatcurrentfreereservesare sufficient.The reservespolicyis reviewedannuallyto takeaccount of
financial circumstances and opportunities to further the Trust's objectives.
Page 4
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FUTURE COMMITMENTS
Throughtheannualbudgetingexercise,andsupportingtheTrust'sambitionsandopportunitiesforchangeasoutlinedin the
2025-2030 Vision, future investments under consideration include:
----- Start of picture text -----
•
•
----- End of picture text -----
-
The creation of a new "Volunteer Co-ordinator" post to support, manage and monitor volunteer activity at the Trust which will reinforce the Trust's aim to be more representative and visible -
Grant support to Leeds City Council to create a joint Conservation Officer post to support the Trust's charitable objectives in support of the historic built environment -
• Further partnership working and grant support as part of the "Greening Leeds" ambition • Consideration of a third round of community grants (commencing in the 26/27 financial year) to support the Trust's aim to be a more representative organisation -
Additional expenditure including one-off capital expenditure and rental and service charges arising from taking out a lease on proposed new premises
Thesecommitments,in additionto "businessas usual"activity,are consideredkey to supportingthe implementationof the Trust's
vision.
Funding diversification
NotwithstandingtheactionstakenbyTrusteestoprotectthefutureviabilityoftheTrust,thereisanawarenessthatthe Trust
should look to diversity its income sources. Trustees will be consideringa number of options to strengthen the Trust's position in the
coming financial year.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document
The Trust is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and is controlled by its governing document, a constitution.
TheBoardofTrusteesisthegoverningbodyoftheTrust.TheBoardmeetsregularlyandtherearesubcommitteeswhich meet
regularly. The Director manages day to day operations of the Trust and reports to the Board.
Induction and training of new trustees
New members of the Board are subject to an inductionprocedureby the Director,to brief them on their legal responsibilities under
charities law and the organisational structure and decision making process of the Trust.
Key management remuneration
The Trust maintainsa Pay Awards Policy,whichoutlinesthe processthroughwhichpay rates are set and amended.Pay awards are
decidedthrougha recommendationoftheTrust'sFinanceandGeneralPurposesCommitteetotheBoardandareusually decided
by vote of Board at an annual meeting.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Charity number
1014362
Principal address
17-19 Wharf Street
Leeds
LS2 7EQ
Trustees
H E Beard
J Brettell
C C Chapman (appointed 24/2/25)
G E Mills (appointed 24/6/25)
L Moore
M A Piet
J D Pike
C Stead
J Strover
A Stowe
Page 5
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Independent Examiner
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 22nd January 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
J Strover - Trustee
Page 6
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Leeds Civic Trust
IreporttothecharitytrusteesonmyexaminationoftheaccountsofLeedsCivicTrust(theTrust)fortheyear ended
31st August 2025.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charitytrusteesof the Trust you are responsiblefor the preparationof the accountsin accordancewith the requirements of
the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').
IreportinrespectofmyexaminationoftheTrust'saccountscarriedoutunderSection145oftheActandincarryingout my
examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Sinceyourcharity'sgrossincomeexceeded£250,000yourexaminermustbeamemberofalistedbody.IcanconfirmthatI am
qualifiedtoundertaketheexaminationbecauseIamamemberoftheInstituteofCharteredAccountantsinEnglandand Wales,
which is one of the listed bodies.
Ihavecompletedmyexamination.Iconfirmthatnomaterialmattershavecometomyattentioninconnectionwith the
examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by Section 130 of the Act; or
2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concernsand have come across no other mattersin connectionwith the examinationto which attentionshould be drawn
in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Christopher Darwin FCA
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
22nd January 2026
Page 7
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
NotesINCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROMDonations and legacies3Charitable activities6Charitable ActivitiesOther trading activities4Investment income5TotalEXPENDITURE ONRaising funds7Charitable activities8Charitable ActivitiesTotalNet gains on investmentsNET INCOMERECONCILIATION OF FUNDSTotal funds brought forwardTOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestrictedfunds£359,3525,39113,74223,028401,51311,846398,152409,99845,84237,3571,770,3011,807,658 |
Restrictedfunds£5,180---5,180----5,180-5,180 |
2025Totalfunds£364,5325,39113,74223,028406,69311,846398,152409,99845,84242,5371,770,3011,812,838 |
2024Totalfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
601,802 |
||||
8,946300,839 |
||||
309,785 |
||||
53,484 |
||||
345,5011,424,800 |
||||
1,770,301 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 8
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
BALANCE SHEET 31ST AUGUST 2025
NotesFIXED ASSETSTangible assets15Heritage assets16Investments17CURRENT ASSETSStocks18Debtors19Cash at bank and in handCREDITORSAmounts falling due within one year20NET CURRENT ASSETSTOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIESNET ASSETSFUNDS23Unrestricted fundsRestricted fundsTOTAL FUNDS |
2025£296,52050,9761,154,2041,501,7006,314195,256155,608357,178(46,040)311,1381,812,8381,812,8381,807,6585,1801,812,838 |
2024£306,77450,976865,734 |
|---|---|---|
1,223,4843,5346,465592,224 |
||
602,223(55,406) |
||
546,817 |
||
1,770,301 |
||
1,770,301 |
||
1,770,301- |
||
1,770,301 |
Thefinancialstatementswereapprovedby theBoardofTrusteesand authorisedforissueon22ndJanuary2026and were signed
on its behalf by:
J Strover - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 9
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
1. CHARITY INFORMATION
Leeds Civic Trust is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, established on 25 May 2021.
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
Thefinancialstatementsofthecharity,whichisapublicbenefitentityunderFRS102,havebeenpreparedin accordance
withthe CharitiesSORP(FRS102)'Accountingand Reportingby Charities:StatementofRecommendedPractice applicable
to charitiespreparingtheir accountsin accordancewith the FinancialReportingStandardapplicablein the UK and Republic
ofIreland(FRS102)(effective1January2019)',FinancialReportingStandard102'TheFinancialReporting Standard
applicablein the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the CharitiesAct 2011. The financialstatementshave been prepared under
thehistoricalcostconvention,withtheexceptionofinvestmentswhichareincludedatmarketvalue,asmodifiedby the
revaluation of certain assets.
Thefinancialstatementsarepreparedinsterling,whichisthefunctionalcurrencyoftheCharity.Monetaryamounts in
these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
Going concern
Atthetimeofsigningthesefinancialstatements,havingconsideredtheexternalenvironment,theobjectivesandaims of
theCharityforthenext12months,andtheavailabilityoffinancialassetsheld,theTrusteesareoftheopinionthat the
Charitywillremainviablefor the foreseeablefuture and accordinglythese financialstatementshave been preparedon the
going concern basis.
Income
IncomeisrecognisedwhentheCharityislegallyentitledtoitafteranyperformanceconditionshavebeenmet, the
amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cashdonationsarerecognisedonreceipt.OtherdonationsarerecognisedoncetheCharityhasbeennotifiedof the
donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount.
Legaciesare recognisedon receiptor otherwiseif the Charityhas been notifiedof an impendingdistribution,the amount is
known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
Expenditure
Expenditureis recognisedoncethereis a legalor constructiveobligationto transfereconomicbenefitto a third party,it is
probablethatatransferofeconomicbenefitswillberequiredinsettlement,andtheamountoftheobligationcan be
measured reliably.
Expenditureisclassifiedbyactivity.Thecostsofeachactivityaremadeupofthetotalofdirectcostsandshared costs,
includingsupportcostsinvolvedinundertakingeachactivity.Directcostsattributabletoasingleactivityare allocated
directlytothatactivity.Sharedcostswhichcontributetomorethanoneactivityandsupportcostswhichare not
attributabletoasingleactivityareapportionedbetweenthoseactivitiesonabasisconsistentwiththeuseof resources.
Centralstaffcostsareallocatedonthebasisoftimespent,anddepreciationchargesareallocatedontheportionof the
asset's use.
Grantsofferedsubjecttoconditionswhichhavenotbeenmetattheyearenddatearenotedasacommitmentbut not
accrued as expenditure.
Tangible fixed assets
Tangiblefixed assets are initiallymeasured at cost and subsequentlymeasured at cost or valuation,net of depreciation and
any impairment losses.
Depreciationis recognisedsoas towriteoffthecostorvaluationofassetslesstheirresidualvaluesovertheiruseful lives
on the following bases:
Property Improvements |
5% on cost |
|---|---|
Equipment |
10% - 20% on cost |
Furniture |
20% on cost |
continued...
Page 10
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Tangible fixed assets
Thegainorlossarisingonthedisposalofanassetisdeterminedasthedifferencebetweenthesaleproceedsand the
carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
NodepreciationisprovidedonfreeholdbuildingsastheTrusteesconsideranychargefortheyearandany accumulated
depreciation, after taking account of the estimated residual value, to be immaterial.
Impairment of fixed assets
Ateachreportingenddate,theCharityreviewsthecarryingamountsofitstangibleassetstodeterminewhetherthere is
any indicationthatthoseassetshavesufferedan impairmentloss.If any suchindicationexists,the recoverableamount of
the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
Heritage assets
Tangibleorintangibleassetswithhistorical,artisticorculturalqualitiesthatareheldandmaintainedprincipallyfor their
contribution to knowledge and culture are classified as heritage assets.
Heritageassetsthatarepurchasedarerecognisedandheldatthecostofacquisitionwithanysubsequentadditions also
recognised at the cost.
HeritageassetsdonatedtotheCharityarerecognisedinitiallyattheirfairvalue,estimatedbyreferencetorecent market
transactions or binding sale agreements between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm's length transaction.
The Charity has not adopted a policy of revaluation in respect of heritage assets.
Fixed asset investment
All quoted investmentsare shown in the balance sheet at market value. Gifted investmentsare introducedinto the balance
sheetattheirmarketvalueatthetimeofdonation.Realisedgainsandlossescomprisethesurplusordeficitarising from
the disposalproceeds(less costs)of investmentssold during the year over the marketvalue at the end of the previous year
or, if purchased during the year, over their cost.
Unrealised gains and losses represent:
(a} for investments held throughout the year the difference between their market values at the start and end of the year, or
(b} for investments purchased during the year and held at the end of the year the difference between the purchase cost
and market value at the end of the year.
Stocks
Stocksarevaluedatthelowerofcostandnetrealisablevalue,aftermakingdueallowanceforobsoleteandslow moving
items.
Netrealisablevalueistheestimatedsellingpricelessallestimatedcostsofcompletionandcoststobeincurred in
marketing, selling and distribution.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cashandcashequivalentsincludecashinhand,depositsheldatcallwithbanks,othershort-termliquidinvestments with
originalmaturitiesofthreemonthsorless,andbankoverdrafts.Bankoverdraftsareshownwithinborrowingsin current
liabilities.
Taxation
The Charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees.
DesignatedfundscompriseunrestrictedfundsthathavebeensetasidebytheTrusteesforparticularpurposes. The
purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
continued...
Page 11
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Fund accounting
Restrictedfundscanonlybeusedforparticularrestrictedpurposeswithintheobjectsofthecharity.Restrictions arise
when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
Financial instruments
TheCharityonlyentersintotransactionsin‘basic’financialinstrumentswhichresultintherecognitionofassets and
liabilities;Basicfinancialinstrumentsincludetradeandotherdebtorsandcreditors,bankbalances,loansfrombanks and
other third parties,and loans to relatedparties.These are recognisedin the Charity'sbalancesheet when it becomes party
to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Basicfinancialassets(otherthanthoseclassifiedaspayablewithinoneyear)areinitiallymeasuredatcostand are
subsequentlycarriedatcostoramortisedcostusingtheeffectiveinterestmethod,lessanyimpairmentlosses. Basic
financial assets classed as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Basicfinancialliabilities(otherthanthoseclassifiedaspayablewithinoneyear)areinitiallymeasuredatpresentvalue of
future cash flows and subsequently at amortisedcost using the effectiveinterest method. Basic financialliabilitiesclassed as
payable within one year are not amortised.
Financialassetsandliabilitiesareoffset,withthenetamountreportedin thefinancialstatements,whenthereisa legally
enforceableright to set offthe recognisedamountsand there is an intentionto settleon a net basis or to realisethe asset
and settle the liability simultaneously.
Retirement benefits
TheCharityoperatesadefinedcontributionpensionscheme.ContributionspayabletotheCharity'spensionscheme are
charged to the statement of financial activities in the period to which they relate.
Leases
Rentals payable under operatingleases, including any lease incentivesreceived,are charged as an expense on a straight line
basis over the term of the relevant lease.
3. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
DonationsBlue Plaque donationsSubscriptionsRoyalties from historic legacyOTHER TRADING ACTIVITIESOther incomeBlue Plaque Scheme sponsorshipAnnual Report advertisingPublications and shop income |
2025£5965,18046,716312,040364,5322025£-3,5506,6353,55713,742 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
|---|---|---|---|
576,279 |
|||
2024£1005,1004,900708 |
|||
10,808 |
4. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
continued...
Page 12
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
5. |
INVESTMENT INCOME |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Investment fund income |
12,411 |
- |
|||
Deposit account interest |
10,617 |
11,386 |
|||
23,028 |
11,386 |
||||
6. |
INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES |
||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
Charitable |
Total |
||||
Activities |
activities |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Event income |
5,391 |
3,329 |
|||
7. |
RAISING FUNDS |
||||
Other trading activities |
|||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Annual Report costs |
3,052 |
2,773 |
|||
Blue Plaque Scheme costs |
5,658 |
6,099 |
|||
Publications and shop costs |
(2,779) |
74 |
|||
5,931 |
8,946 |
||||
Investment management costs |
|||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Portfolio management |
5,915 |
- |
|||
Aggregate amounts |
11,846 |
8,946 |
|||
8. |
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS |
||||
Grant |
|||||
funding of |
|||||
Direct |
activities |
Support |
|||
Costs (see |
(see note |
costs (see |
|||
note 9) |
10) |
note 11) |
Totals |
||
£ |
£ |
£ |
£ |
||
Charitable Activities |
320,308 |
58,824 |
19,020 |
398,152 |
continued...
Page 13
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
9. DIRECT COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Staff costsPostage and stationerySubscriptions and internetEvent costsBear Pit repairsLeeds Architecture awardsLiveable Leeds projectArt competion costsLeeds Development Corporation projectLeeds Community Foundation expensesHeritage Fund costsTake a Seat maintenance costsLeeds Civic 60th Anniversary projectHeritage Framework projectOffice administrationMarketingStrategic planningCorporate membership schemeVolunteer and individual membership schemeDepreciationLoss on disposal of fixed assets |
2025£222,6674,04093011,791(2,537)-9,056-1,349-5,4842503,5545,00026,0843,8267,0535,0742,88513,72181320,308 |
2024£207,7243,7522,37017,7791,7732212,9235681,1011,044----20,0194,346-2,7023,9516,769- |
|---|---|---|
277,042 |
10. GRANTS PAYABLE
Grants are awardedto organisationsand individualsfollowingapprovalof formalapplication,where the proposeduse is in
keepingwiththeCharity'saimsandobjectives.Monitoringofthegrantsprocessisbyacommitteedelegatedby the
Trustees and all awards are agreed by the Trustees. No support costs have been allocated against the amounts so awarded.
One grant was awardedin the financialyear ending 31st August 2025 totalling£58,824,and one grant was awarded during
the prior year totalling £7,824. Both grants were awarded to the Leeds Community Foundation.
11. SUPPORT COSTS
SUPPORT COSTS |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
Governance |
|||
Other |
costs |
Totals |
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
|
Charitable Activities |
14,820 |
4,200 |
19,020 |
continued...
Page 14
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
11. SUPPORT COSTS - continued
Support costs, included in the above, are as follows:
SUPPORT COSTS - continuedSupport costs, included in the above, are as follows: |
||
|---|---|---|
2025 |
2024 |
|
Charitable |
Total |
|
Activities |
activities |
|
£ |
£ |
|
Bank and transaction fees |
464 |
324 |
Wharf St establishment costs |
14,356 |
12,949 |
Accountancy and legal fees |
4,200 |
2,700 |
19,020 |
15,973 |
12. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
Therewerenotrustees'remunerationorotherbenefitsfortheyearended31stAugust2025norfortheyear ended
31st August 2024.
Trustees' expenses
Trusteeexpensesof£43(2024:£4)werepaidintheyearinrespectofreimbursementofexpensesincurredon charitable
activities
13. STAFF COSTS
Wages and salariesSocial security costsOther pension costs |
2025£189,66110,61322,393222,667 |
2024£173,85312,87820,993 |
|---|---|---|
207,724 |
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
2025 |
2024 |
|
|---|---|---|
Administration staff |
5 |
5 |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
2025 |
2024 |
||
|---|---|---|---|
£70,001 |
- £80,000 |
1 |
1 |
In addition to the Director,the other staff were employed to support the day to day administrativeand financialactivities of
theCharity,supportforengagementactivityviamemberandnon-membereventsincludingHeritageOpenDaysand Blue
Plaqueunveilings,promotionoftheTrustthroughwrittenandon-linematerials(socialmedia),membership,support and
administration and support for the Charity's transport and planning committees and groups.
Thetotalamountofemployeebenefits(includingemployer'snationalinsuranceandpensionscontributions)received by
Key Management Personnel was £91,624 (2024: £84,295)
continued...
Page 15
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
14. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROMDonations and legaciesCharitable activitiesCharitable ActivitiesOther trading activitiesInvestment incomeTotalEXPENDITURE ONRaising fundsCharitable activitiesCharitable ActivitiesTotalNet gains on investmentsNET INCOMERECONCILIATION OF FUNDSTotal funds brought forwardTOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestrictedfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386601,8028,946300,839309,78553,484345,5011,424,8001,770,301 |
Restrictedfunds£------------ |
Totalfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386 |
|---|---|---|---|
601,802 |
|||
8,946300,839 |
|||
309,785 |
|||
53,484 |
|||
345,5011,424,800 |
|||
1,770,301 |
continued...
Page 16
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
15. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COSTAt 1st September 2024AdditionsDisposalsAt 31st August 2025DEPRECIATIONAt 1st September 2024Charge for yearEliminated on disposalAt 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
ImprovementsFreeholdtoPlant andpropertypropertymachinery£££98,616227,07250,808--3,228--(28,406)98,616227,07225,630-25,00444,718-11,3542,330--(28,325)-36,35818,72398,616190,7146,90798,616202,0686,090 |
Fixturesandfittings£13,500320(6,923)6,89713,50037(6,923)6,614283- |
Totals£389,9963,548(35,329)358,21583,22213,721(35,248)61,695296,520306,774 |
|---|---|---|---|
16.HERITAGE ASSETSMARKET VALUEAt 1st September 2024 and 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
Total£50,97650,97650,976 |
|---|---|
The balanceheld as heritageassets relatesto the HeadingleyBear Pit. It is consideredthat the primarypurpose for holding
is its historical and cultural value.
17. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
MARKET VALUEAt 1st September 2024AdditionsChange in market valueAt 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
Listedinvestment£865,734236,13352,3371,154,2041,154,204865,734 |
|---|---|
There were no investment assets outside the UK.
The historic cost of investment assets in 2025 is £1,079,000 (2024: £827,000).
continued...
Page 17
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
17. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS - continued
Material investments
Quoted investments include the following funds which each amount to greater than 5% of the total portfolio as follows:
2025:UK Treasury stock (0.125%)UK Treasury stock (1.25%)2024:iShares YS$ Treasury 3-7yrsUK Treasury stock (0.875%)18.STOCKSFinished goods19.DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAROther debtorsSubscription debtorsPrepayments and accrued income20.CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEARSocial security and other taxesOther creditorsAccruals and deferred income |
£67,909£64,017£62,208£50,9132025£6,3142025£-3,160192,096195,2562025£3,4141,51941,10746,040 |
2024£3,534 |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|
2024£1384,2372,090 |
||||
6,465 |
||||
2024£4,72316,30434,379 |
||||
55,406 |
21. LEASING AGREEMENTS
Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:
Within one yearBetween one and five years |
2025£1,0202,8943,914 |
2024£1,184296 |
|---|---|---|
1,480 |
continued...
Page 18
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
22. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
Unrestrictedfunds£Fixed assets347,496Investments1,154,204Current assets351,998Current liabilities(46,040)1,807,65823.MOVEMENT IN FUNDSAt 1/9/24£Unrestricted fundsGeneral fund1,539,346Bear Pit fund25,000Blue Plaque Maintenance Fund4,955Snaith Award1,000Heritage Buildings Fund200,000Take A Seat Maintenance Fund-Resilience Investment Fund-1,770,301Restricted fundsBlue Plaque Donation Fund-TOTAL FUNDS1,770,301Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:Incomingresources£Unrestricted fundsGeneral fund399,721Heritage Buildings Fund-Take A Seat Maintenance Fund-Resilience Investment Fund1,792401,513Restricted fundsBlue Plaque Donation Fund5,180TOTAL FUNDS406,693 |
Restrictedfunds£--5,180-5,180Netmovementin funds£37,010---(5,484)(250)6,08137,3575,18042,537Resourcesexpended£(403,624)(5,484)(250)(640)(409,998)-(409,998) |
2025Totalfunds£347,4961,154,204357,178(46,040)1,812,838Transfersbetweenfunds£(213,133)(25,000)-(1,000)-3,000236,133---Gains andlosses£40,913--4,92945,842-45,842 |
2024Totalfunds£357,750865,734602,223(55,406)1,770,301At31/8/25£1,363,223-4,955-194,5162,750242,2141,807,6585,1801,812,838Movementin funds£37,010(5,484)(250)6,08137,3575,18042,537 |
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 19
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
23. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
Unrestricted fundsGeneral fundBear Pit fundBlue Plaque Maintenance FundLeeds Project fundSnaith AwardHeritage Buildings FundTOTAL FUNDS |
At 1/9/23£1,161,427247,7683,23211,3731,000-1,424,8001,424,800 |
Netmovementin funds£345,547-(46)---345,501345,501 |
Transfersbetweenfunds£32,372(222,768)1,769(11,373)-200,000-- |
At31/8/24£1,539,34625,0004,955-1,000200,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1,770,301 |
||||
1,770,301 |
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Unrestricted fundsGeneral fundBlue Plaque Maintenance FundTOTAL FUNDS |
Incomingresources£601,802-601,802601,802 |
Resourcesexpended£(309,739)(46)(309,785)(309,785) |
Gains andMovementlossesin funds££53,484345,547-(46)53,484345,50153,484345,501 |
Gains andMovementlossesin funds££53,484345,547-(46)53,484345,50153,484345,501 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
345,501 |
||||
345,501 |
Unrestricted funds
General fund represents unrestricted funds available for general use in the furtherance of the Charity's activities.
Designated funds
The BearPitFund was used forthe renovationofthe BearPitand to enableit to be openedup as a Civiclandmark, which
duly took place in 2024/25. No further costs are foreseen.
The Blue Plaque Maintenance Fund is to be used to meet future maintenance costs of the Blue Plaque scheme.
TheHeritageBuildingsFund is tobe used tosupporttherestorationofheritagebuildingseitherthroughgrantaidto third
parties or through direct expenditure by the Charity.
The Take A Seat MaintenanceFund is a new fund that has been establishedto support the future maintenancecostsof the
Take A Seat scheme.
The ResilienceInvestmentFund is a new fund that has been establishedwith the targetof generatinggrowthto provide an
incometohedgeagainstthepotentialdeclineinroyaltyincomeinordertosupportthelongtermsustainabilityof the
Charity.
Restricted funds
TheBluePlaqueDonationFundisanewrestrictedfundthathasbeenestablishedtomeetthecostofinstallingnew Blue
Plaqueswheresufficientsponsorshipincomehasnotbeenpossibletosecure.IncomereceivedrelatestoourBlue Plaque
donationschemelaunchedintheyearaspartoftheCharity's60thanniversaryactivities,togetherwithbequests from
long-standing Blue Plaque supporters.
continued...
Page 20
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
24. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions to disclose for the year ended 31 August 2025 nor for the year 31st August 2024.
Page 21
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTSDonations and legaciesDonationsBlue Plaque donationsSubscriptionsRoyalties from historic legacyOther trading activitiesOther incomeBlue Plaque Scheme sponsorshipAnnual Report advertisingPublications and shop incomeInvestment incomeInvestment fund incomeDeposit account interestCharitable activitiesEvent incomeTotal incoming resourcesEXPENDITUREOther trading activitiesAnnual Report costsBlue Plaque Scheme costsPublications and shop costsInvestment management costsPortfolio managementCharitable activitiesWagesSocial securityPensionsPostage and stationerySubscriptions and internetEvent costsBear Pit repairsLeeds Architecture awardsCarried forward |
2025£5965,18046,716312,040364,532-3,5506,6353,55713,74212,41110,61723,0285,391406,6933,0525,658(2,779)5,9315,915189,66110,61322,3934,04093011,791(2,537)-236,891 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
|---|---|---|
576,2791005,1004,900708 |
||
10,808-11,386 |
||
11,3863,329 |
||
601,8022,7736,09974 |
||
8,946-173,85312,87820,9933,7522,37017,7791,773221233,619 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 22
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Charitable activitiesBrought forwardLiveable Leeds projectArt competion costsLeeds Development Corporation projectLeeds Community Foundation expensesHeritage Fund costsTake a Seat maintenance costsLeeds Civic 60th Anniversary projectHeritage Framework projectOffice administrationMarketingStrategic planningCorporate membership schemeVolunteer and individual membership schemeDepreciation of tangible fixed assetsLoss on disposal of fixed assetsGrants to institutionsSupport costsOtherBank and transaction feesWharf St establishment costsGovernance costsAccountancy and legal feesTotal resources expendedNet (expenditure)/income before gains and lossesRealised recognised gains and lossesRealised gains/(losses) on fixed asset investmentsNet income |
2025£236,8919,056-1,349-5,4842503,5545,00026,0843,8267,0535,0742,88513,7218158,824379,13246414,35614,8204,200409,998(3,305)45,84242,537 |
2024£233,6192,9235681,1011,044----20,0194,346-2,7023,9516,769-7,824 |
|---|---|---|
284,86632412,949 |
||
13,2732,700 |
||
309,785 |
||
292,01753,484 |
||
345,501 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 23
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1014362
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FOR
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
----- Start of picture text -----
Page
Report of the Trustees 1 to 6
Independent Examiner's Report 7
Statement of Financial Activities 8
Balance Sheet 9
Notes to the Financial Statements 10 to 21
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 22 to 23
----- End of picture text -----
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
The Trusteespresent their report with the financialstatementsof the Trust for the year ended 31st August 2025. The Trustees have
adoptedtheprovisionsofAccountingandReportingbyCharities:StatementofRecommendedPracticeapplicableto charities
preparing their accountsin accordancewith the FinancialReportingStandard applicablein the UK and Republicof Ireland (FRS 102)
(effective 1 January 2019).
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
The objectives and aims of the Trust are as follows:
a) to stimulate public interest in and care for the beauty, history and heritage of the City of Leeds and locality,
b)toencouragehighqualitysustainabledevelopmentandpromotestandardsofsustainableurbandesign,architecture,and town
planning,
c) to encourage the judicious preservation, development, and improvement of features of general public amenity,
d)toadvanceappreciationofapeoplefriendlyenvironment,andpromotewaysofimprovingtheenvironmentwithin Leeds,
including green and public spaces, waterways, and sustainable transport,
e) to promote and organise co-operation in the achievement of these objectives
Public benefit
Withreferencetothedutyinsection17(5)oftheCharitiesAct2011,theTrusteesconfirmthattheyhavereferredtothe Charity
Commission'sguidanceonpublicbenefitwhenreviewingtheTrust'saimsandobjectivesandinplanningitscurrentand future
activities. The achievements and activities outlined in this report demonstrate the public benefit arising from the Trust's activities.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
TrusteesadoptedanewoverarchingvisionfortheTrustcoveringtheperiod2025-2030,comprisingfourambitionsand three
opportunitiesfor change.The visionamplifiesthe Trust'scharitableobjectivesand providesa strategicframeworkwithin which the
Trust will operate over the next five years:
Our ambitions
1. Developing Leeds
We are committedto fosteringthe highest standards of sustainableurban design, architectureand landscape throughoutthe whole
of the city. We advocateinnovativedesign, climatefriendly development,infrastructureand facilities,ensuring a balanced approach
to the city's commercial,residentialand social needs. We consider placemakingand master planning to be the key building blocks of
sustainable development.
2. Moving around Leeds
Weaimtoimprovetravelwithin,toandfromLeeds,ensuringpeoplecaneasilyaccessawiderangeofemployment,leisure and
educationalopportunities.Wechampionsustainabletransportsolutionsthatenablepeopleandorganisationstobe productive
whilstenhancingthebuiltandnaturalenvironment,enablingpeopletoleadhealthylivesandallowingthecitytomeet its
environmental obligations.
3. Greening Leeds
Wepromotehigh-qualitypublicspacesandenlivenedwaterways.Weaimtoidentifyandlobbyfornewpublicopenspaces. We
prioritise active travel and support efforts to further develop the river, canal and becks as focal points for green corridors.
4. Celebrating Leeds
Wecelebratethecity'srichhistorybylearningfrom,preserving,andinterpretingitsphysicalandsocialheritagewhile creating
legaciesforfuturegenerations.WeaimtouncoverandsharethestoriesofLeeds'speople,challengehistoricalassumptions, and
considerthelong-termimpactofwhatwearedoingtoday.Wewillfocusonpreservingthehistoricbuiltenvironment and
identifying tomorrow's heritage.
Page 1
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Opportunities for change
Leeds Civic Trust seeks to make a meaningful impact across the city. To achieve this, we aim to become:
1. More representative
We will take actionto ensure our members,supporters,and partners better reflectthe diverse demographicmakeup of Leeds. New
approaches will be explored to involve the people of Leeds more actively in our work and decision-making processes.
2. More visible
We will communicatemore effectivelywith people, decision makers and key organisationsacross the city. By clearly articulating our
priorities, activities, and achievements, we will ensure greater awareness of our work and impact.
3. More influential
Wewillstrengthenourrelationshipswithkeyindividualsandorganisationstomaximiseourinfluence.Thisincludesreviewing our
connections and finding the right balance between collaboration and constructive challenge to amplify our impact.
Theseambitionsandopportunitiesaredeliveredthroughacombinationof"businessasusual"activitiesandalimitednumber of
SMART strategic objectives which look at short, medium and long-term activity.
Key activities during the 2025 financial year
2025markedthe 60th anniversaryof LeedsCivicTrust'sformation.A number of the Trust'sactivitiesservedto celebrateand mark
this significant milestone culminating in more than 2000 tickets issued for events that took place during the year.
Someofthekeyactivitiesareoutlinedbelow.A companionreportpublishedalongsidetheseaccountsprovidesmore information
about the impact of the Trust's work.
Developing Leeds
We worked with the Leeds Society of Architects,Leeds City Council and RIBA to mount the biennial Leeds ArchitectureAwards. New
outputsincludedapre-eventexhibitionofshortlistedschemeswhichtookplaceattheLeedsCornExchangeworkingtowards an
awardsceremonyattheHowardAssemblyRooms.Around1,000peoplevotedforthe"people'sprize"withtheRoger Stevens
Building being nominated as their favourite of the last 60 years.
OurPlanningCommittee,whichmeetstwiceamonth,receivedpresentationsfromdevelopersandarchitectsandcommented on
significantandimportantschemeswithintheLeedsMetropolitanDistrict.Thesemeetingsareaugmentedbyformaland informal
meetings with key stakeholders including Leeds City Council to further the Trust's objectives.
Moving around Leeds
TheTrust'sinterestintransportissupportedbyamonthlymeetingoftheTransportandLiveableLeedsGroup.They received
presentationsfrom externalorganisations,including Councillorsand Councilofficers,on a varietyof topics and respond to local and
nationalconsultationswhere the Trust has an interest and develop positionson key transportissues affectingthe city. The Trust has
thisyearestablishedatrustedrelationshipwiththeWestYorkshireCombinedAuthorityinrelationtoproposalsformass transit
through regular officer level meetings.
Greening Leeds
WecontinuedtodevelopourvisionfortheEastsideofLeeds,workingwithLeedsCityCouncil,theWadesTrustandthe Leeds
Minstertoprovidefinancialsupporttore-imagineofPennyPocketParkandenvirons.Wewerepleasedthatarchitects Urban
Wilderness were shortlisted for a national Landscape Institute Prize for their work on the Eastside Vision.
Page 2
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Celebrating Leeds
We completedthe restorationof the Bear Pit, a Victorianstructure purchased by Leeds Civic Trust in 1966. Followingfinal handover
bythecontractors,therestorationprojectwasmarkedbyanopeningceremonyandfurthereventsduringtherestoftheyear as
part of the Trust's commitment to make the site available for members of the public.
OurBluePlaquesschemeachievedanimportantmilestonewithour200thplaqueunveiled.Wewerepleasedthatournew Blue
PlaquesDonationsFund (whichsupportsunfundedplaquenominations)attracteda mixtureofoneoffand regulardonations. Two
bequests(fromtheestatesofOlavArnoldandNevilleRowell)wereassignedtothisfund.OlavArnoldinstigatedthescheme in
1987, and Neville Rowell was an enthusiastic funder of last resort particularly in the early days of the scheme.
TheTrustcontinuedtoco-ordinateHeritageOpenDays.Thiscelebrationofheritagesawafurtherincreaseinparticipants and
openings and significant publicity for our work.
LeedsCivicTrustworkedwith key heritageinstitutionsfromacrossthe cityto fund and developa HeritageFrameworkforthe city.
Thisdocumentwillidentifywhatwevalueinourheritagewithinthecityandsupportorganisationsacrossthecityin the
development of external funding bids.
More representative, visible and influential
Member and partner liaison
The Trust worked with many stakeholders and partners throughout the year to help deliver the Trust's objectives.
The Leeds CommunityFoundationadministersthe Trust'sCommunityHeritageFund - grant schemeworthover£100,000over two
years. These projects,which will have tangible outcomesincluding reclaimedgardens and artefacts,enable the Trust to reach out to
new partners. A series of visits to observe the projects was undertaken.
FortheTrust's60thanniversary,wefocusedonincreasingmembershiptargeting60newindividualmembersanda significant
increasein our corporatemembershipnumbers during the calendaryear. By the end of the financialyear,we had gained nearly 50
newindividualmembersand morethan20neworreturningcorporatemembers.Wealsobegantoseetakeup ofournew under
30'smembershipcategory.We successfullylauncheda "futureleaders"networkinglunchinitiativetoencourageengagement with
junior staff from our corporate partners.
OureventsprogrammeaimstounderpintheTrust'scharitableobjectives.Thisincludedourlargesteverywalk programme
incorporatinghistoricalandcontemporarysubjects,severalvisitstobuildingrestorationprojects,awebinarseries considering
energyefficiencyinbuildingsandavisittoaco-housingscheme.Weemployedaninternformuchof2025todeliveran oral
histories project for the Trust's 60th anniversary.
Communications
TheTrustusessocialmediatocommunicateitsworktothewiderworld.Thisisincreasinglyeffective,anddataanalytics bear
testamentto its reach.A decisionwas taken to retire"The Outlook"publicationin hard copyformatand to replacewith a monthly
e-newsletter.Membersandsupporterswillnowreceiveanewmagazinepublication"TheOwl"onatwice-yearlybasis.This has
allowedtheTrusttoreverttoanAnnualReportformatwhichwillbepublishedalongsidetheseannualaccounts,andwhich will
expand on this summary report.
Corporate strategy and planning
TosupporttheTrustsnew2025-2030vision,areviewoftheTrust'scommitteesandgroupswasinitiated.Thisaimsto ensure
streamlineddecision-makingthatalignswiththeTrust'sobjectivesandprovidesmoreappropriategroupingstoguidethe Trust's
voluntary work.
FollowinganearlierresolutionbyTrusteestoseeknewaccommodationfortheTrust,astudywascommissionedbya property
agenttoidentifyashortlistofpotentialnewpremises.ThisworkconcludedanditisanticipatedthattheTrustwillmoveto new
leasedaccommodationduring2026.Anoptionsappraisalfor17-19WharfStreet(inwhichtheTrustholdsthefreehold)was also
undertaken. This study will guide decision-making on the future of the building.
Volunteering
Volunteersarethe bedrockofthe Trustsworkand supportthe deliveryofourcharitableobjectives.Ourwebsitewasrevamped in
thepreviousyeartoprovideamorewelcomingandaccessibleentrypointforthoseinterestedingetttingmoreinvolvedin the
Trust.
Page 3
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial position
During the year, the income totalled £406,693 (2024: £601,802) against expenditure of £409,998 (2024: £309,785).
TheTrustalsorecognisedgainsoninvestmentsof£45,842(2024:gainsof£53,484)leadingtoanoverallsurplusfortheyear of
£45,537 (2024: £345,501).
Principal funding sources
MostoftheTrust'sincomeisderivedfromacombinationofdonationsandlegacies,membershipsubscriptionsand investment
income.
Donations and legacies
IncomefromdonationsandlegaciescontinuedtoconstituteasignificantcomponentoftheTrust'soverallincome.Total income
excludingmembershipsubscriptionstotalled£317,816.Thisreflecteda returnto "normal"levelsafteran unexpectedlylarge HADS
royalty receipt in the previous financial year.
Membership subscriptions
Inthelastannualaccounts,itwasnotedthatTrusteesweremindfuloftheneedtodiversifyincome.TheTrust's60th anniversary
campaignwas used as a platformto attractnew corporateand individualmembers.Thisresultedin a 20%increasein the value of
overall subscription receipts to £46,716 (2024: £39,635).
Investment income
Investmentincomefromthe funds managedby JamesHambro& Partnersis nowshownin the accountsseparatefromthe overall
investmentportfoliovalue.Itstotalvalueforthefinancialyearwas£12,411.Thisincomewasre-invested.Incomefrom cash
deposits was £10,617 (2004: £11,386)
Other income
Other income was derived from activities such as book sales, event income, plaque unveilings and Annual Report advertising.
Financial risks, uncertainties and reserves policy
TheTrust'sreservespolicywascreatedtoaddressaninherentweaknessintheTrust'slongtermfinancialposition:thefact that
most of its income is derived from a single fluctuating source. This key risk is acknowledged in the Trust's risk register.
The Trustees reviewed the reserves policy and reaffirmedthe policy to maintainfree reserves, which are unrestrictedgeneral funds,
excludingtangiblefixed assets,at a levelsufficientto covercharitableand supportcostsfor a minimumof three years,this being a
leveltoenablecontinuanceoftheTrust'sactivitiesintheeventofasignificantdeclineinincome,andwhilstalternate income
sources were sought.
Inaddition,aprinciplehasbeenadoptedthatfreereservesinexcessofthislevelwillbeallocatedoverthelifetimeofits current
operational strategy - The Trust Vision 2025-2030 - in support of the Trust's objectives.
Long term sustainability
Every financialyear, Trustees will aim to earmark a sum equivalent to 30% of the value of receipts from the HADS royalty scheme to
support the long-termsustainabilityof the Trust.Trusteeshave agreed that at least 50% of this sum will be investedin a "resilience
investmentfund," currentlymanagedby JamesHambro& Partnersalongsidebut separateto the generalfund. Fund objectives are
initiallyforgrowthbutultimatelycouldprovideanincomefortheTrustiftheTrust'sincomefromitsprincipalfunding source
declines.
Up to 50% of the sum may be used to establish new or increase existing restrictedfunds which will be used to support the long-term
viability of the Trust.
For the 2024/2025 financial year, Trustees decided to allocate the whole sum to the resilience investment fund.
The Trusteesare thus satisfiedthatcurrentfreereservesare sufficient.The reservespolicyis reviewedannuallyto takeaccount of
financial circumstances and opportunities to further the Trust's objectives.
Page 4
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
FUTURE COMMITMENTS
Throughtheannualbudgetingexercise,andsupportingtheTrust'sambitionsandopportunitiesforchangeasoutlinedin the
2025-2030 Vision, future investments under consideration include:
----- Start of picture text -----
•
•
----- End of picture text -----
-
The creation of a new "Volunteer Co-ordinator" post to support, manage and monitor volunteer activity at the Trust which will reinforce the Trust's aim to be more representative and visible -
Grant support to Leeds City Council to create a joint Conservation Officer post to support the Trust's charitable objectives in support of the historic built environment -
• Further partnership working and grant support as part of the "Greening Leeds" ambition • Consideration of a third round of community grants (commencing in the 26/27 financial year) to support the Trust's aim to be a more representative organisation -
Additional expenditure including one-off capital expenditure and rental and service charges arising from taking out a lease on proposed new premises
Thesecommitments,in additionto "businessas usual"activity,are consideredkey to supportingthe implementationof the Trust's
vision.
Funding diversification
NotwithstandingtheactionstakenbyTrusteestoprotectthefutureviabilityoftheTrust,thereisanawarenessthatthe Trust
should look to diversity its income sources. Trustees will be consideringa number of options to strengthen the Trust's position in the
coming financial year.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document
The Trust is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and is controlled by its governing document, a constitution.
TheBoardofTrusteesisthegoverningbodyoftheTrust.TheBoardmeetsregularlyandtherearesubcommitteeswhich meet
regularly. The Director manages day to day operations of the Trust and reports to the Board.
Induction and training of new trustees
New members of the Board are subject to an inductionprocedureby the Director,to brief them on their legal responsibilities under
charities law and the organisational structure and decision making process of the Trust.
Key management remuneration
The Trust maintainsa Pay Awards Policy,whichoutlinesthe processthroughwhichpay rates are set and amended.Pay awards are
decidedthrougha recommendationoftheTrust'sFinanceandGeneralPurposesCommitteetotheBoardandareusually decided
by vote of Board at an annual meeting.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Charity number
1014362
Principal address
17-19 Wharf Street
Leeds
LS2 7EQ
Trustees
H E Beard
J Brettell
C C Chapman (appointed 24/2/25)
G E Mills (appointed 24/6/25)
L Moore
M A Piet
J D Pike
C Stead
J Strover
A Stowe
Page 5
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Independent Examiner
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 22nd January 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
J Strover - Trustee
Page 6
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Leeds Civic Trust
IreporttothecharitytrusteesonmyexaminationoftheaccountsofLeedsCivicTrust(theTrust)fortheyear ended
31st August 2025.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charitytrusteesof the Trust you are responsiblefor the preparationof the accountsin accordancewith the requirements of
the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').
IreportinrespectofmyexaminationoftheTrust'saccountscarriedoutunderSection145oftheActandincarryingout my
examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Sinceyourcharity'sgrossincomeexceeded£250,000yourexaminermustbeamemberofalistedbody.IcanconfirmthatI am
qualifiedtoundertaketheexaminationbecauseIamamemberoftheInstituteofCharteredAccountantsinEnglandand Wales,
which is one of the listed bodies.
Ihavecompletedmyexamination.Iconfirmthatnomaterialmattershavecometomyattentioninconnectionwith the
examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by Section 130 of the Act; or
2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concernsand have come across no other mattersin connectionwith the examinationto which attentionshould be drawn
in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Christopher Darwin FCA
Thomas Coombs Limited
Chartered Accountants
3365 The Pentagon
Century Way
Thorpe Park
Leeds
West Yorkshire
LS15 8ZB
22nd January 2026
Page 7
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
NotesINCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROMDonations and legacies3Charitable activities6Charitable ActivitiesOther trading activities4Investment income5TotalEXPENDITURE ONRaising funds7Charitable activities8Charitable ActivitiesTotalNet gains on investmentsNET INCOMERECONCILIATION OF FUNDSTotal funds brought forwardTOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestrictedfunds£359,3525,39113,74223,028401,51311,846398,152409,99845,84237,3571,770,3011,807,658 |
Restrictedfunds£5,180---5,180----5,180-5,180 |
2025Totalfunds£364,5325,39113,74223,028406,69311,846398,152409,99845,84242,5371,770,3011,812,838 |
2024Totalfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
601,802 |
||||
8,946300,839 |
||||
309,785 |
||||
53,484 |
||||
345,5011,424,800 |
||||
1,770,301 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 8
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
BALANCE SHEET 31ST AUGUST 2025
NotesFIXED ASSETSTangible assets15Heritage assets16Investments17CURRENT ASSETSStocks18Debtors19Cash at bank and in handCREDITORSAmounts falling due within one year20NET CURRENT ASSETSTOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIESNET ASSETSFUNDS23Unrestricted fundsRestricted fundsTOTAL FUNDS |
2025£296,52050,9761,154,2041,501,7006,314195,256155,608357,178(46,040)311,1381,812,8381,812,8381,807,6585,1801,812,838 |
2024£306,77450,976865,734 |
|---|---|---|
1,223,4843,5346,465592,224 |
||
602,223(55,406) |
||
546,817 |
||
1,770,301 |
||
1,770,301 |
||
1,770,301- |
||
1,770,301 |
Thefinancialstatementswereapprovedby theBoardofTrusteesand authorisedforissueon22ndJanuary2026and were signed
on its behalf by:
J Strover - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 9
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
1. CHARITY INFORMATION
Leeds Civic Trust is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, established on 25 May 2021.
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
Thefinancialstatementsofthecharity,whichisapublicbenefitentityunderFRS102,havebeenpreparedin accordance
withthe CharitiesSORP(FRS102)'Accountingand Reportingby Charities:StatementofRecommendedPractice applicable
to charitiespreparingtheir accountsin accordancewith the FinancialReportingStandardapplicablein the UK and Republic
ofIreland(FRS102)(effective1January2019)',FinancialReportingStandard102'TheFinancialReporting Standard
applicablein the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the CharitiesAct 2011. The financialstatementshave been prepared under
thehistoricalcostconvention,withtheexceptionofinvestmentswhichareincludedatmarketvalue,asmodifiedby the
revaluation of certain assets.
Thefinancialstatementsarepreparedinsterling,whichisthefunctionalcurrencyoftheCharity.Monetaryamounts in
these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
Going concern
Atthetimeofsigningthesefinancialstatements,havingconsideredtheexternalenvironment,theobjectivesandaims of
theCharityforthenext12months,andtheavailabilityoffinancialassetsheld,theTrusteesareoftheopinionthat the
Charitywillremainviablefor the foreseeablefuture and accordinglythese financialstatementshave been preparedon the
going concern basis.
Income
IncomeisrecognisedwhentheCharityislegallyentitledtoitafteranyperformanceconditionshavebeenmet, the
amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cashdonationsarerecognisedonreceipt.OtherdonationsarerecognisedoncetheCharityhasbeennotifiedof the
donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount.
Legaciesare recognisedon receiptor otherwiseif the Charityhas been notifiedof an impendingdistribution,the amount is
known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
Expenditure
Expenditureis recognisedoncethereis a legalor constructiveobligationto transfereconomicbenefitto a third party,it is
probablethatatransferofeconomicbenefitswillberequiredinsettlement,andtheamountoftheobligationcan be
measured reliably.
Expenditureisclassifiedbyactivity.Thecostsofeachactivityaremadeupofthetotalofdirectcostsandshared costs,
includingsupportcostsinvolvedinundertakingeachactivity.Directcostsattributabletoasingleactivityare allocated
directlytothatactivity.Sharedcostswhichcontributetomorethanoneactivityandsupportcostswhichare not
attributabletoasingleactivityareapportionedbetweenthoseactivitiesonabasisconsistentwiththeuseof resources.
Centralstaffcostsareallocatedonthebasisoftimespent,anddepreciationchargesareallocatedontheportionof the
asset's use.
Grantsofferedsubjecttoconditionswhichhavenotbeenmetattheyearenddatearenotedasacommitmentbut not
accrued as expenditure.
Tangible fixed assets
Tangiblefixed assets are initiallymeasured at cost and subsequentlymeasured at cost or valuation,net of depreciation and
any impairment losses.
Depreciationis recognisedsoas towriteoffthecostorvaluationofassetslesstheirresidualvaluesovertheiruseful lives
on the following bases:
Property Improvements |
5% on cost |
|---|---|
Equipment |
10% - 20% on cost |
Furniture |
20% on cost |
continued...
Page 10
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Tangible fixed assets
Thegainorlossarisingonthedisposalofanassetisdeterminedasthedifferencebetweenthesaleproceedsand the
carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.
NodepreciationisprovidedonfreeholdbuildingsastheTrusteesconsideranychargefortheyearandany accumulated
depreciation, after taking account of the estimated residual value, to be immaterial.
Impairment of fixed assets
Ateachreportingenddate,theCharityreviewsthecarryingamountsofitstangibleassetstodeterminewhetherthere is
any indicationthatthoseassetshavesufferedan impairmentloss.If any suchindicationexists,the recoverableamount of
the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
Heritage assets
Tangibleorintangibleassetswithhistorical,artisticorculturalqualitiesthatareheldandmaintainedprincipallyfor their
contribution to knowledge and culture are classified as heritage assets.
Heritageassetsthatarepurchasedarerecognisedandheldatthecostofacquisitionwithanysubsequentadditions also
recognised at the cost.
HeritageassetsdonatedtotheCharityarerecognisedinitiallyattheirfairvalue,estimatedbyreferencetorecent market
transactions or binding sale agreements between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm's length transaction.
The Charity has not adopted a policy of revaluation in respect of heritage assets.
Fixed asset investment
All quoted investmentsare shown in the balance sheet at market value. Gifted investmentsare introducedinto the balance
sheetattheirmarketvalueatthetimeofdonation.Realisedgainsandlossescomprisethesurplusordeficitarising from
the disposalproceeds(less costs)of investmentssold during the year over the marketvalue at the end of the previous year
or, if purchased during the year, over their cost.
Unrealised gains and losses represent:
(a} for investments held throughout the year the difference between their market values at the start and end of the year, or
(b} for investments purchased during the year and held at the end of the year the difference between the purchase cost
and market value at the end of the year.
Stocks
Stocksarevaluedatthelowerofcostandnetrealisablevalue,aftermakingdueallowanceforobsoleteandslow moving
items.
Netrealisablevalueistheestimatedsellingpricelessallestimatedcostsofcompletionandcoststobeincurred in
marketing, selling and distribution.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cashandcashequivalentsincludecashinhand,depositsheldatcallwithbanks,othershort-termliquidinvestments with
originalmaturitiesofthreemonthsorless,andbankoverdrafts.Bankoverdraftsareshownwithinborrowingsin current
liabilities.
Taxation
The Charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees.
DesignatedfundscompriseunrestrictedfundsthathavebeensetasidebytheTrusteesforparticularpurposes. The
purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.
continued...
Page 11
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Fund accounting
Restrictedfundscanonlybeusedforparticularrestrictedpurposeswithintheobjectsofthecharity.Restrictions arise
when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
Financial instruments
TheCharityonlyentersintotransactionsin‘basic’financialinstrumentswhichresultintherecognitionofassets and
liabilities;Basicfinancialinstrumentsincludetradeandotherdebtorsandcreditors,bankbalances,loansfrombanks and
other third parties,and loans to relatedparties.These are recognisedin the Charity'sbalancesheet when it becomes party
to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Basicfinancialassets(otherthanthoseclassifiedaspayablewithinoneyear)areinitiallymeasuredatcostand are
subsequentlycarriedatcostoramortisedcostusingtheeffectiveinterestmethod,lessanyimpairmentlosses. Basic
financial assets classed as receivable within one year are not amortised.
Basicfinancialliabilities(otherthanthoseclassifiedaspayablewithinoneyear)areinitiallymeasuredatpresentvalue of
future cash flows and subsequently at amortisedcost using the effectiveinterest method. Basic financialliabilitiesclassed as
payable within one year are not amortised.
Financialassetsandliabilitiesareoffset,withthenetamountreportedin thefinancialstatements,whenthereisa legally
enforceableright to set offthe recognisedamountsand there is an intentionto settleon a net basis or to realisethe asset
and settle the liability simultaneously.
Retirement benefits
TheCharityoperatesadefinedcontributionpensionscheme.ContributionspayabletotheCharity'spensionscheme are
charged to the statement of financial activities in the period to which they relate.
Leases
Rentals payable under operatingleases, including any lease incentivesreceived,are charged as an expense on a straight line
basis over the term of the relevant lease.
3. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
DonationsBlue Plaque donationsSubscriptionsRoyalties from historic legacyOTHER TRADING ACTIVITIESOther incomeBlue Plaque Scheme sponsorshipAnnual Report advertisingPublications and shop income |
2025£5965,18046,716312,040364,5322025£-3,5506,6353,55713,742 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
|---|---|---|---|
576,279 |
|||
2024£1005,1004,900708 |
|||
10,808 |
4. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES
continued...
Page 12
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
5. |
INVESTMENT INCOME |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Investment fund income |
12,411 |
- |
|||
Deposit account interest |
10,617 |
11,386 |
|||
23,028 |
11,386 |
||||
6. |
INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES |
||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
Charitable |
Total |
||||
Activities |
activities |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Event income |
5,391 |
3,329 |
|||
7. |
RAISING FUNDS |
||||
Other trading activities |
|||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Annual Report costs |
3,052 |
2,773 |
|||
Blue Plaque Scheme costs |
5,658 |
6,099 |
|||
Publications and shop costs |
(2,779) |
74 |
|||
5,931 |
8,946 |
||||
Investment management costs |
|||||
2025 |
2024 |
||||
£ |
£ |
||||
Portfolio management |
5,915 |
- |
|||
Aggregate amounts |
11,846 |
8,946 |
|||
8. |
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS |
||||
Grant |
|||||
funding of |
|||||
Direct |
activities |
Support |
|||
Costs (see |
(see note |
costs (see |
|||
note 9) |
10) |
note 11) |
Totals |
||
£ |
£ |
£ |
£ |
||
Charitable Activities |
320,308 |
58,824 |
19,020 |
398,152 |
continued...
Page 13
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
9. DIRECT COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
Staff costsPostage and stationerySubscriptions and internetEvent costsBear Pit repairsLeeds Architecture awardsLiveable Leeds projectArt competion costsLeeds Development Corporation projectLeeds Community Foundation expensesHeritage Fund costsTake a Seat maintenance costsLeeds Civic 60th Anniversary projectHeritage Framework projectOffice administrationMarketingStrategic planningCorporate membership schemeVolunteer and individual membership schemeDepreciationLoss on disposal of fixed assets |
2025£222,6674,04093011,791(2,537)-9,056-1,349-5,4842503,5545,00026,0843,8267,0535,0742,88513,72181320,308 |
2024£207,7243,7522,37017,7791,7732212,9235681,1011,044----20,0194,346-2,7023,9516,769- |
|---|---|---|
277,042 |
10. GRANTS PAYABLE
Grants are awardedto organisationsand individualsfollowingapprovalof formalapplication,where the proposeduse is in
keepingwiththeCharity'saimsandobjectives.Monitoringofthegrantsprocessisbyacommitteedelegatedby the
Trustees and all awards are agreed by the Trustees. No support costs have been allocated against the amounts so awarded.
One grant was awardedin the financialyear ending 31st August 2025 totalling£58,824,and one grant was awarded during
the prior year totalling £7,824. Both grants were awarded to the Leeds Community Foundation.
11. SUPPORT COSTS
SUPPORT COSTS |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
Governance |
|||
Other |
costs |
Totals |
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
|
Charitable Activities |
14,820 |
4,200 |
19,020 |
continued...
Page 14
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
11. SUPPORT COSTS - continued
Support costs, included in the above, are as follows:
SUPPORT COSTS - continuedSupport costs, included in the above, are as follows: |
||
|---|---|---|
2025 |
2024 |
|
Charitable |
Total |
|
Activities |
activities |
|
£ |
£ |
|
Bank and transaction fees |
464 |
324 |
Wharf St establishment costs |
14,356 |
12,949 |
Accountancy and legal fees |
4,200 |
2,700 |
19,020 |
15,973 |
12. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
Therewerenotrustees'remunerationorotherbenefitsfortheyearended31stAugust2025norfortheyear ended
31st August 2024.
Trustees' expenses
Trusteeexpensesof£43(2024:£4)werepaidintheyearinrespectofreimbursementofexpensesincurredon charitable
activities
13. STAFF COSTS
Wages and salariesSocial security costsOther pension costs |
2025£189,66110,61322,393222,667 |
2024£173,85312,87820,993 |
|---|---|---|
207,724 |
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
2025 |
2024 |
|
|---|---|---|
Administration staff |
5 |
5 |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
2025 |
2024 |
||
|---|---|---|---|
£70,001 |
- £80,000 |
1 |
1 |
In addition to the Director,the other staff were employed to support the day to day administrativeand financialactivities of
theCharity,supportforengagementactivityviamemberandnon-membereventsincludingHeritageOpenDaysand Blue
Plaqueunveilings,promotionoftheTrustthroughwrittenandon-linematerials(socialmedia),membership,support and
administration and support for the Charity's transport and planning committees and groups.
Thetotalamountofemployeebenefits(includingemployer'snationalinsuranceandpensionscontributions)received by
Key Management Personnel was £91,624 (2024: £84,295)
continued...
Page 15
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
14. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROMDonations and legaciesCharitable activitiesCharitable ActivitiesOther trading activitiesInvestment incomeTotalEXPENDITURE ONRaising fundsCharitable activitiesCharitable ActivitiesTotalNet gains on investmentsNET INCOMERECONCILIATION OF FUNDSTotal funds brought forwardTOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD |
Unrestrictedfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386601,8028,946300,839309,78553,484345,5011,424,8001,770,301 |
Restrictedfunds£------------ |
Totalfunds£576,2793,32910,80811,386 |
|---|---|---|---|
601,802 |
|||
8,946300,839 |
|||
309,785 |
|||
53,484 |
|||
345,5011,424,800 |
|||
1,770,301 |
continued...
Page 16
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
15. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COSTAt 1st September 2024AdditionsDisposalsAt 31st August 2025DEPRECIATIONAt 1st September 2024Charge for yearEliminated on disposalAt 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
ImprovementsFreeholdtoPlant andpropertypropertymachinery£££98,616227,07250,808--3,228--(28,406)98,616227,07225,630-25,00444,718-11,3542,330--(28,325)-36,35818,72398,616190,7146,90798,616202,0686,090 |
Fixturesandfittings£13,500320(6,923)6,89713,50037(6,923)6,614283- |
Totals£389,9963,548(35,329)358,21583,22213,721(35,248)61,695296,520306,774 |
|---|---|---|---|
16.HERITAGE ASSETSMARKET VALUEAt 1st September 2024 and 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
Total£50,97650,97650,976 |
|---|---|
The balanceheld as heritageassets relatesto the HeadingleyBear Pit. It is consideredthat the primarypurpose for holding
is its historical and cultural value.
17. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS
MARKET VALUEAt 1st September 2024AdditionsChange in market valueAt 31st August 2025NET BOOK VALUEAt 31st August 2025At 31st August 2024 |
Listedinvestment£865,734236,13352,3371,154,2041,154,204865,734 |
|---|---|
There were no investment assets outside the UK.
The historic cost of investment assets in 2025 is £1,079,000 (2024: £827,000).
continued...
Page 17
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
17. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS - continued
Material investments
Quoted investments include the following funds which each amount to greater than 5% of the total portfolio as follows:
2025:UK Treasury stock (0.125%)UK Treasury stock (1.25%)2024:iShares YS$ Treasury 3-7yrsUK Treasury stock (0.875%)18.STOCKSFinished goods19.DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAROther debtorsSubscription debtorsPrepayments and accrued income20.CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEARSocial security and other taxesOther creditorsAccruals and deferred income |
£67,909£64,017£62,208£50,9132025£6,3142025£-3,160192,096195,2562025£3,4141,51941,10746,040 |
2024£3,534 |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|
2024£1384,2372,090 |
||||
6,465 |
||||
2024£4,72316,30434,379 |
||||
55,406 |
21. LEASING AGREEMENTS
Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:
Within one yearBetween one and five years |
2025£1,0202,8943,914 |
2024£1,184296 |
|---|---|---|
1,480 |
continued...
Page 18
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
22. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS
Unrestrictedfunds£Fixed assets347,496Investments1,154,204Current assets351,998Current liabilities(46,040)1,807,65823.MOVEMENT IN FUNDSAt 1/9/24£Unrestricted fundsGeneral fund1,539,346Bear Pit fund25,000Blue Plaque Maintenance Fund4,955Snaith Award1,000Heritage Buildings Fund200,000Take A Seat Maintenance Fund-Resilience Investment Fund-1,770,301Restricted fundsBlue Plaque Donation Fund-TOTAL FUNDS1,770,301Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:Incomingresources£Unrestricted fundsGeneral fund399,721Heritage Buildings Fund-Take A Seat Maintenance Fund-Resilience Investment Fund1,792401,513Restricted fundsBlue Plaque Donation Fund5,180TOTAL FUNDS406,693 |
Restrictedfunds£--5,180-5,180Netmovementin funds£37,010---(5,484)(250)6,08137,3575,18042,537Resourcesexpended£(403,624)(5,484)(250)(640)(409,998)-(409,998) |
2025Totalfunds£347,4961,154,204357,178(46,040)1,812,838Transfersbetweenfunds£(213,133)(25,000)-(1,000)-3,000236,133---Gains andlosses£40,913--4,92945,842-45,842 |
2024Totalfunds£357,750865,734602,223(55,406)1,770,301At31/8/25£1,363,223-4,955-194,5162,750242,2141,807,6585,1801,812,838Movementin funds£37,010(5,484)(250)6,08137,3575,18042,537 |
|---|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 19
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
23. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
Unrestricted fundsGeneral fundBear Pit fundBlue Plaque Maintenance FundLeeds Project fundSnaith AwardHeritage Buildings FundTOTAL FUNDS |
At 1/9/23£1,161,427247,7683,23211,3731,000-1,424,8001,424,800 |
Netmovementin funds£345,547-(46)---345,501345,501 |
Transfersbetweenfunds£32,372(222,768)1,769(11,373)-200,000-- |
At31/8/24£1,539,34625,0004,955-1,000200,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1,770,301 |
||||
1,770,301 |
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Unrestricted fundsGeneral fundBlue Plaque Maintenance FundTOTAL FUNDS |
Incomingresources£601,802-601,802601,802 |
Resourcesexpended£(309,739)(46)(309,785)(309,785) |
Gains andMovementlossesin funds££53,484345,547-(46)53,484345,50153,484345,501 |
Gains andMovementlossesin funds££53,484345,547-(46)53,484345,50153,484345,501 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
345,501 |
||||
345,501 |
Unrestricted funds
General fund represents unrestricted funds available for general use in the furtherance of the Charity's activities.
Designated funds
The BearPitFund was used forthe renovationofthe BearPitand to enableit to be openedup as a Civiclandmark, which
duly took place in 2024/25. No further costs are foreseen.
The Blue Plaque Maintenance Fund is to be used to meet future maintenance costs of the Blue Plaque scheme.
TheHeritageBuildingsFund is tobe used tosupporttherestorationofheritagebuildingseitherthroughgrantaidto third
parties or through direct expenditure by the Charity.
The Take A Seat MaintenanceFund is a new fund that has been establishedto support the future maintenancecostsof the
Take A Seat scheme.
The ResilienceInvestmentFund is a new fund that has been establishedwith the targetof generatinggrowthto provide an
incometohedgeagainstthepotentialdeclineinroyaltyincomeinordertosupportthelongtermsustainabilityof the
Charity.
Restricted funds
TheBluePlaqueDonationFundisanewrestrictedfundthathasbeenestablishedtomeetthecostofinstallingnew Blue
Plaqueswheresufficientsponsorshipincomehasnotbeenpossibletosecure.IncomereceivedrelatestoourBlue Plaque
donationschemelaunchedintheyearaspartoftheCharity's60thanniversaryactivities,togetherwithbequests from
long-standing Blue Plaque supporters.
continued...
Page 20
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
24. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions to disclose for the year ended 31 August 2025 nor for the year 31st August 2024.
Page 21
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTSDonations and legaciesDonationsBlue Plaque donationsSubscriptionsRoyalties from historic legacyOther trading activitiesOther incomeBlue Plaque Scheme sponsorshipAnnual Report advertisingPublications and shop incomeInvestment incomeInvestment fund incomeDeposit account interestCharitable activitiesEvent incomeTotal incoming resourcesEXPENDITUREOther trading activitiesAnnual Report costsBlue Plaque Scheme costsPublications and shop costsInvestment management costsPortfolio managementCharitable activitiesWagesSocial securityPensionsPostage and stationerySubscriptions and internetEvent costsBear Pit repairsLeeds Architecture awardsCarried forward |
2025£5965,18046,716312,040364,532-3,5506,6353,55713,74212,41110,61723,0285,391406,6933,0525,658(2,779)5,9315,915189,66110,61322,3934,04093011,791(2,537)-236,891 |
2024£1,532-39,635535,112 |
|---|---|---|
576,2791005,1004,900708 |
||
10,808-11,386 |
||
11,3863,329 |
||
601,8022,7736,09974 |
||
8,946-173,85312,87820,9933,7522,37017,7791,773221233,619 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 22
LEEDS CIVIC TRUST
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2025
Charitable activitiesBrought forwardLiveable Leeds projectArt competion costsLeeds Development Corporation projectLeeds Community Foundation expensesHeritage Fund costsTake a Seat maintenance costsLeeds Civic 60th Anniversary projectHeritage Framework projectOffice administrationMarketingStrategic planningCorporate membership schemeVolunteer and individual membership schemeDepreciation of tangible fixed assetsLoss on disposal of fixed assetsGrants to institutionsSupport costsOtherBank and transaction feesWharf St establishment costsGovernance costsAccountancy and legal feesTotal resources expendedNet (expenditure)/income before gains and lossesRealised recognised gains and lossesRealised gains/(losses) on fixed asset investmentsNet income |
2025£236,8919,056-1,349-5,4842503,5545,00026,0843,8267,0535,0742,88513,7218158,824379,13246414,35614,8204,200409,998(3,305)45,84242,537 |
2024£233,6192,9235681,1011,044----20,0194,346-2,7023,9516,769-7,824 |
|---|---|---|
284,86632412,949 |
||
13,2732,700 |
||
309,785 |
||
292,01753,484 |
||
345,501 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 23