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2021-12-31-accounts

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES

AND FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

FOR

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

A REGISTERED CHARITY

AND

A COMPANY L I M I T E D B Y GUARANTEE

Registered Company Number 07151955 Registered Charity Number 1137142

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

INDEX FOR THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

Page
Company Information 1
Report of the Board of Trustees 2-7
Report of the Auditors 8-11
Statement of Financial Activities 12
Balance Sheet 13
Notes to the Financial Statements 14-20

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

COMPANY INFORMATION

Trustees/Directors

Company Secretary

Registered Office

Registered Company number

Registered Charity number

Auditors

Dr. A J Impey K A Hazelhurst D A Holt A L Pritchard A Davidson (appointed 12/07/22) J Dagley (appointed 12/07/22) S Howe (appointed 12/07/22) A Impey (appointed 12/07/22) S Quill (appointed 12/07/22) R Yates (appointed 12/07/22)

F Hearn (Resigned 30/03/22)

Abbotts Hall Farm Great Wigborough Colchester Essex CO5 7RZ 07151955

1137142

Moore Kingston Smith LLP Orbital House 20 Eastern Road Romford Essex RM1 3PJ

Bankers

Barclays Bank PLC Barclays Business Centre 40-41 High Street Chelmsford Essex CM1 1BE

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

The Board presents its report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31[st] December 2021.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing document

Thameside Nature Park Limited is a company limited by guarantee governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. It is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission.

Appointment of Trustees

The Trustees are also Directors for the purpose of company law. The Chair of the Trustees is elected by the Board. There is provision for at least three Trustees one third of who are elected annually by the members of the charity at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The Trustees serve for a period of three years.

The Trustees have the power to co-opt a member to fill a vacancy on the Board of Trustees that occurs between AGMs. The co-opted Trustee must however stand down or be nominated for election at the next AGM. All members are circulated with the names of nominated trustees prior to the AGM.

Trustee induction and training

New Trustees undergo a training programme that will brief them on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the decision-making processes and recent financial performance of the charity. During the induction, they meet key employees and other Trustees.

The Trustees are encouraged to attend appropriate external training events where these will facilitate the undertaking of their role.

Trustees/Directors

The directors during the year under review were: Dr. A J Impey – Acting chair (but not voted on until 12 July 2022) K A Hazelhurst

D A Holt M J Outten – Resigned (01/04/22) A L Pritchard E Lyne – Chair – Resigned (01/09/21)

The following directors were nominated and elected at the Board Meeting held on 12 July 2022:

A Davidson J Dagley S Howe A Impey S Quill R Yates

Organisation

The Board of Trustees is responsible for determining the strategic direction of the charity and for monitoring performance towards those set objectives. The Board meets on average 4 times per year. To facilitate effective operations the Chair has delegated authority, within terms of delegation approved by the Trustees, for operational matters including finance and employment.

2

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

Related parties

Thameside Nature Park Limited is a subsidiary of Essex Wildlife Trust Limited. Other subsidiaries of Essex Wildlife Trust Limited are:

Essex Wildlife Trust Limited is also a Corporate Trustee of the Veolia Pitsea Marshes and the Veolia Havering Riverside Maintenance Trusts from which it has also received grants for support of its environmental objectives.

Risk management

The Trustees have a risk management strategy that comprises an annual review of the risks the charity may face and the establishment of systems and procedures to mitigate those risks identified in the review. They will also oversee the implementation of procedures designed to minimise any potential impact on the charity should those risks materialise. Generally, the risks faced by the charity have remained similar to previous years. Details relating to the health and safety and the investment risks are found on pages 4 and 5.

Going Concern - COVID-19

COVID has had an ongoing impact on all entities in the Essex Wildlife Trust group which has followed a “COVID-19 response plan”. Following the temporary closure of our Nature Discovery Centres and all education activities, most of our sites have been open since the end of government lockdowns in 2021, with restrictions that have gradually eased through 2021. Activities have not yet returned to pre-COVID levels this has impacted our ability to raise funds through income generation activities and restricted some of our charitable work that involves contact with our wider community.

We have received in 2021 back dated payments from the Mucking Charitable Trust for 2020, to cover the maintenance and management of the site. No provision has been made for funding in 2021, and ongoing discussions are progressing for a more longer-term funding stream to support the charity expenses. The company has adopted more regular reporting and forecasting to mitigate the risk of the financial uncertainty.

Having reviewed the company’s financial forecasts and expected future cashflows, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and for a period of at least 12 months following the approval of these financial statements. Thus, the going concern basis has been adopted in preparing the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2021.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The objects of the charity are:

For the benefit of the public, to look after and further the conservation, maintenance and protection of the area known as Thameside Nature Park adjacent to Mucking in Thurrock, which is leased from Enovert at a peppercorn rent.

To advance the education of the public in the principles and practice of conservation, sustainable development and biodiversity within the Thameside Nature Park.

Sustainable development is primarily defined as "Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." (The Brundtland Commission).

3

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

Each year the Trustees work with EWT to ensure the strategic focus is relevant for the site, through setting the annual budget.

Thameside Nature Park relies on regular annual grants received from the Mucking Charitable Trust, and donations from other sources to cover its operating costs.

In shaping the objectives for the year and planning the activities, the Trustees have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, including their guidance on fee charging.

Free education covering topics linked to the objects of the charity are provided for members of the public by the staff and volunteers at the Thameside Nature Park. Other education, using the facilities at the Thameside Nature Park, is provided by staff from the Essex Wildlife Trust. For those courses for which fees are levied, careful consideration is given to the accessibility to the courses by all members of the public. In these cases, it is often the case that the fees charged do not cover the full cost of the courses, the remainder being subsidised by the charity as part of the core objectives of the charity.

Thameside Nature Park is accessible to the public free of charge and on-going work is always mindful of improving that access for families with young children and the disabled, within the unique health and safety considerations for the site. Where possible and practical, free advice is also given to members of the public who contact the charity.

The charity is very dependent on the help of volunteers in all these activities. Currently, there is a growing band of volunteers who do a huge variety of valuable work on work parties, completing surveys and assisting with administration.

The charity sub-lets an area of the Thameside Nature Park to Essex Wildlife Trust Limited who have erected a visitors' centre on the site for the use and benefit of all members of the public. The centre was generously funded by a range of funders including the Cory Environmental Trust in Thurrock, the Homes and Communities Agency - Parklands, t h e Hew Watt Charitable Trust, and several other sources of charitable appeals.

Other buildings on the site, Crown Cottages, Red Barn and Brick Barn are leased by the charity from Enovert at a peppercorn rent.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Access for all

The Rangers remained on site during the 2021 winter lockdown and were able to respond to low levels of antisocial behavior and damage. There has been the usual cutting of path verges and amenity areas. The area of land managed has not increased this year as hoped, due to delays in installation of the new access track through Lease Area 5 because of COVID-19.

Health and Safety

As in previous years the health and safety issues on an ex-landfill site are the most important consideration when we do any management work. Vehicle access has again been carefully controlled this year to ensure the landfill capping is not damaged and landfill material exposed.

Ongoing monitoring of methane around the site is carried out by Enovert and at the Centre we continue to take daily readings in the basement pods. We have had no issues this year with elevated methane levels.

An annual tree safety survey was carried out, no work required.

The Rangers and volunteers continue to undertake regular checks around the lake, signage about the dangers of swimming in the lakes are replaced regularly as they are removed or vandalised. Life buoys are reinstalled.

Practical Conservation

The site was grazed over winter from September to March at low density, by cattle this year, less than 0.75 livestock units per hectare, using the same local grazier. This will continue as a standard management practice as the grazing will improve the diversity of the grassland species by controlling coarse grasses that could dominate the sward. We do want areas of ‘rank’ grassland, because this encourages the development of ant hills, that supports good populations of small mammals, an important food source for reptiles and species like barn owl and short eared owl. This mosaic of sward heights provides the variety of grassland habitat that encourages greater species diversity. Only grazing can achieve this, unlike mechanical mowing, and this is going to be an essential management tool when we take on the remaining area of the site. Some areas of the park cannot be cut because of waste material that is on the surface such as concrete and metal. We will inspect Lease Area 5 in much more detail, to ensure that we take on land in a state that will allow it to be managed as required.

4

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

A hay cut was taken again on the Coronation Meadow area, to encourage diversity in the grassland species. These meadows were also subsequently grazed. Regular hay cuts will result in a reduction in fertility, which will result in greater diversity of plant species. Plants will be affected by climate change. We are getting more extreme weather events and this will influence which species will thrive or survive. Risks of fire in grassland with prolonged dry spells are a threat, not just to the grassland species, but to the whole site.

We have maintained longer grassland habitat boarder scrub to maintain areas of cover for reptiles, mammals and invertebrates. The scrub and bramble areas continue to increase and provide great habitat, but we need to manage this to maintain the cover and not expand at the expense of the grassland. A side arm flail has been purchased to allow efficient management of the habitat. This is much more efficient than using brush cutters.

Scrub and bramble were managed to create a mosaic of different aged habitat, to support different species. We have continued to manage the woodland, with the aim of increasing dead wood habitat. This is important for specialist invertebrates. The large translocation areas continue to be managed to ensure they are a suitable habitat for the translocated reptiles, which means that they cannot be mechanically cut, only grazing can be used to manage the habitat.

We have mowed or brush cut around reptile hibernacula to maintain open areas, approx. 1m wide, in a ring around the hibernacula to ensure suitable basking areas. We have maintained the short cut basking areas. A survey was undertaken and good numbers of slow worm, common lizard, grass snake and adder were found across the site.

Invasive species such as goat’s rue were tackled last year by means of mechanical cutting and using chemical spraying. The rangers now hold PA1 and PA6 Lantra qualifications. It is difficult to keep invasive species under control and minimise spread. They are a problem at the site; we will need to consider what is practical when we have the whole site. We may have to accept that these invasive species are part of the ecology of the site and work with them or concentrate efforts in key areas.

The site still supports good numbers of skylarks, although data is showing that they are possibly declining. Any grassland management needs to take their ground nesting habits into consideration. To protect the breeding territories of the skylarks we have limited access to stop disturbance during the breeding season March - August. We enforce dogs on leads all year round to avoid confusion, as they are the biggest threats to nests. It is an ongoing issue for staff to educate the public.

Breeding bird, butterfly, reptile and rapid grassland assessment surveys were carried out in house in 2021.

Security is frequently reviewed and improved in order to counter the national prevalence of agricultural crime.

Events

The number of events has been massively impacted by COVID-19. Since the first lockdown in March 2020, we have had no events due to restrictions set by the government. We were able to undertake some limited education delivery through the summer holiday period. Nature Tots was delivered for a few months. A restructure of Education Officers centrally means TNP will not have a full-time dedicated officer here. Responsibilities for delivery in 2021 were shared across the Southeast Team and recruitment is ongoing to add to their team.

FINANCIAL REVIEW OF THE CHARITY

Funding of maintenance of management of Thameside Nature Park Limited (TNP) is secured through the investment of an original fund of over £2.3m, which is under the control of Mucking Charitable Trust and is projected to cover the length of the 99 year lease granted for Thameside Nature Park in 2012

The Trustees of the Mucking Charitable Trust (MCT) suspended contributions to TNP in 2020 and, as a consequence, its net operating expenditure was met by drawing on unrestricted reserves. The 2020 funding (£121,840) was received in 2021, with no subsequent funding received or allowed for in the 2021 accounts. The MCT Trustees have requested that a formal plan is put in place regarding their future financial support to TNP. Discussions are ongoing between the two parties and the Trustees of TNP remain confident that an agreement can be reached to re-establish the funding from MCT to TNP on a sound basis.

5

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

Financial reserves policy

Free reserves provide the working capital requirements of the charity. Free reserves are calculated by deducting the unspent part of restricted funds, together with the value of designated funds and amounts tied up as fixed assets from the total net assets of the charity. The current financial reserves policy is to keep expenditure within the guaranteed income to build up a small financial reserve projected at one third of the annual expenditure, which currently equates to £47,599. This is invested to maximise interest at low to medium risk on short term deposit so as not to limit access to the funds.

The current level of free reserves is £191,541 (2020: £229,657), this represents 16 months of expenditure. The Trustees have aimed to reduce this balance over the coming years, but at present need to secure a long-term funding stream before future projects are committed to, that would reduce reserves to be in line with the current reserves policy.

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS

The charity leases at a peppercorn rent, approximately 240 acres (97 hectares) of land from Enovert and we are continuing to negotiate transfers of further land, increasing our area of managed land and increasing the areas accessible to the public. The next areas of land likely to be leased are Areas 5 and 6. We are expecting this handover in 2022. This area incorporates Enovert’s main entrance and the two front fields either side of this and the land to the west of the work yard. Enovert will install the new Nature Park entrance and road in this area. We have drawn up detailed plans of how we need the land to be. Some of this will be part of the agreed s106 plans. There are other works we would like to see happening before we sign the lease. We are negotiating how we can best achieve this. For example, we do not want to take on the old buildings and would rather they be demolished. We are having regular meetings with Enovert, at least every three months and we are building a strong partnership.

A new Site Plan should be in place by July. This will pull together all the activities at the Nature Discovery Centre with the management on the park, to achieve a ‘unified’ offer and ensure that the vision for the site is being progressed.

Maintaining the existing Nature Park

We will continue regular maintenance of the habitats and infrastructure as set out by the site management plan, which will be reviewed this year. This will achieve benefits for the important flora and fauna of the site and benefits for people visiting the Nature Park. This involves looking after boundaries, paths, tracks, hides, buildings and their security.

Conservation Work

We will continue to manage the grassland through grazing, cutting and haying, to create a diverse sward, controlling invasive species. We will continue to manage our translocation areas to provide optimum conditions. This will include adding logs and aggregate to hibernacula and planting thorny hedgerow shrubs to keep cattle from trampling piles. This will also improve the security of the site.

We will manage the trees and scrub on site to create a mosaic of age structure that will support a diverse range of species. All fishing was stopped on Golden Gates Lake. A security firm was employed on a short contract to patrol the lake. They discovered only low levels of activity and so we decided this could be managed in house.

As we take on further land, we will review the management plan to ensure the site is managed as a cohesive unit, creating better opportunities for the wildlife.

Access for all

As we take on new leased areas, we will install way-marker posts to ensure that visitors can make the most of the newly accessible areas. We will continue to maintain the amenity areas around the site to encourage visitors to use the picnic and play areas.

Health and Safety

This will continue to be a priority at the site; checks will be programmed throughout the year in accordance with the Site Audit, the Operations Manual and Risk assessment procedures. As a result of the 2020 Health and Safety Review, the recommendations were implemented.

6

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

Events

We will work within the governments COVID-19 guidelines to engage with the public where possible through events. The Rangers will continue to lead a varied programme of walks throughout the year to ensure visitors leave the site with a better understanding of its ecological importance. The Rangers will continue to support the delivery of the Nature Discovery Centre events programme in a COVID secure way, to encourage greater use of the site, particularly by our biggest customer group, the local community.

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Report and the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law and charity law require the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the profit or loss of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charitable company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

STATEMENT OF DISCLOSURE TO THE AUDITORS

So far as the Trustees are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditors are unaware. Additionally, the trustees have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as trustees in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the charitable company's auditors are aware of that information.

AUDITORS

In accordance with the charitable company's articles, a resolution proposing that Moore Kingston Smith LLP be reappointed as auditors of the charitable company will be put at a General Meeting.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

A Impey – Director

Dated: 12[th] July 2022

7

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THAMESI DE NATURE PARK LIMITED

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Thameside Nature Park Limited for the year ended 31[st] December 2021 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard Applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs(UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

8

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees’ annual report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement set out on page 7, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.

9

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

The objectives of our audit in respect of fraud, are; to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and implementing appropriate responses to those assessed risks; and to respond appropriately to instances of fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit.

However, the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both management and those charged with governance of the charitable company.

Our approach was as follows:

As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (UK) we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

10

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to any party other than the charitable company and charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Karen Wardell (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Moore Kingston Smith LLP, Statutory Auditor

Date 29 July 2022

Orbital House 20 Eastern Road Romford, Essex RM1 3PJ

11

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

Notes
INCOME
Charitable Activities
3
Investments
Other
Total income
EXPENDITURE
Charitable Activities
Total expenditure
5
NET EXPENDITURE
Transfer between funds 11
NET MOVEMENT IN
FUNDS
Balance brought forward at
1st January 2021
Balance carried forward at
31stDecember 2021		 Unrestricted
Funds
Designated
Funds
Total
Funds
2021
£
£
£
133,906
-
133,906
1,413
-
1,413
363
-
363
135,682
-
135,682
142,797
-
142,797
142,797
-
142,797
(7,115)
-
(7,115)
(12,792)
12,792
-
(19,907)
12,792
(7,115)
312,871
26,147
339,018
292,964
38,939
331,903		 Total
Funds
2020
£
14,501
1,812
1,769
18,082
71,956
71,956
(53,874)
-
(53,874)
392,892
339,018

The Statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The Notes on pages 14 to 20 form part of the financial statements

12

THAMESI DE NATURE PARK LIMITED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
8
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
9
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors falling due within one
year
10
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS less LIABILITIES
FUNDS
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
TOTAL FUNDS
11		 2021
£
£
101,423
220,661
17,296
237,957
(7,477)
230,480
331,903
292,964
38,939
331,903		 2020
£
£
83,214
257,301
2,290
259,591
(3,787)
255,804
339,018
312,871
26,147
339,018		 2020
£
£
83,214
257,301
2,290
259,591
(3,787)
255,804
339,018
312,871
26,147
339,018
237,957
(7,477)		 259,591
(3,787)
292,964
38,939		 312,871
26,147
339,018
339,018

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Signed on behalf of the Board

……………………………………………..

A Impey Director

……………………………………………. D Holt Director

Approved by the Board and authorised for issue on: 12[Th] July 2022

Company registration number 07151955

The Notes on pages 14 to 20 form part of the financial statements

13

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Company information

Thameside Nature Park Limited is a limited company domiciled and incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, Essex, CO5 7RZ.

Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of listed investments which are included at their market value. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland effective 1 January 2015 (The FRS 102 Charities SORP), the Companies Act 2006 and Charities Act 2011.

The financial statements are prepared in Sterling, which is the functional currency of the charitable company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest pound.

Going concern

The Trustees of the Mucking Charitable Trust (MCT) suspended contributions to Thameside Nature Park (TNP) in 2020 and, as a consequence, its net operating expenditure was met by drawing on unrestricted reserves. The 2020 funding (£121,840) was received in 2021, with no subsequent funding received or allowed for in the 2021 accounts. The MCT Trustees have requested that a formal plan is put in place regarding their future financial support to TNP. Discussions are ongoing between the two parties and the Trustees of TNP remain confident that an agreement can be reached to re-establish the funding from MCT to TNP on a sound basis.

Having reviewed the company’s financial forecasts and expected future cashflows, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and for a period of at least 12 months following the approval of these financial statements. Thus, the going concern basis has been adopted in preparing the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2021.

Exemptions for qualifying entities under FRS102

The charitable company has taken advantage of the following exemptions under the provisions of FRS 102:

Funds

Unrestricted Funds are those which can be used for the general advancement of the objectives of Thameside Nature Park Limited. Designated Funds when shown are those designated for a specific purpose by the Trustees. Restricted Funds are those whereby the use is restricted by the donor.

14

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 (continued)

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Tangible fixed assets

Moveable assets costing in aggregate over £1,000 are capitalised. Tangible fixed assets other than freehold land are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.

Depreciation is provided at the following rates in order to write off the value of each asset over its estimated life.

Motor vehicles 20% on cost p.a. Small equipment 20% on cost p.a. Plant & machinery 15% on cost p.a. Office equipment 33⅓% on cost p.a. Road & Buildings 12½% on cost p.a.

Grants receivable

Grants receivable, including Government Grants, are accounted for on an accruals basis, the income being recognised in the period to which it relates.

Expenditure

Expenditure is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) on an accruals basis.

Charitable expenditure comprises direct costs in the deliverance of its activities and services in view of the small size of the charity all support costs relate to this activity.

Taxation

As a registered charity Thameside Nature Park Limited is potentially exempt from taxation of income and gains. No tax charge has arisen in the year.

Financial instruments

All the company’s financial assets and liabilities are basic, measured at amortised cost.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and deposits held at call with banks.

15

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 (continued)

2. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the charitable company’s accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

Useful economic lives of tangible fixed assets

The annual depreciation charge for tangible fixed assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are re-assessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, future investments, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets. See note 8 for the carrying amount of the tangible fixed assets and note 1 for the useful economic lives for each class of asset.

3. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES INCOME

Grants and donations received
The Mucking Charitable Trust
Agricultural Grants
Donations
4. STAFF COSTS
Wages & Salaries
Social Security costs
Other pension costs
Additional labour costs		 2021
£
121,840
11,916
150
133,906
2021
£
21,848
1,149
1,676
8,018
32,691		 2020
£
-
14,391
110
14,501
2020
£
21,313
528
1,066
-
22,907

No employee earned in excess of £60,000 in the year. The average number of employees during the year was 1.2 (2020: 1.2).

16

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 (continued)

5. EXPENDITURE
2021
Direct
Costs
Support
Costs
£
£
Charitable Activities
Surveys
-
Salaries & related costs
32,691
Staff & volunteers travelling expenses
69
Staff & volunteers training
750
Health & Safety & PPE
681
Property costs including Crown Cottage
5,871
Reserve maintenance including barns
46,839
Materials including small tools
2,461
Fuels Inc. derv, petrol, kerosene & gas oil
1,049
Depreciation
27,804
Other vehicle costs
2,337
Insurance premiums
575
Administration expenses
286
Bank charges
104
Professional Fees
300
Intercompany recharges
18,460
Audit Fees
2,520
Contribution to project
-
Profit on disposal of asset
-
121,127
21,670
121,127
Total Expenditure
142,797
All support costs are in furtherance of the Charitable Activities.
Governance costs included above amount to £2,520 (2020: £2,400).
6. AUDITORS’ REMUNERATION
2021
£
Fees payable to the company’s auditors for the
audit of the company’s annual accounts		 5. EXPENDITURE
2021
Direct
Costs
Support
Costs
£
£
Charitable Activities
Surveys
-
Salaries & related costs
32,691
Staff & volunteers travelling expenses
69
Staff & volunteers training
750
Health & Safety & PPE
681
Property costs including Crown Cottage
5,871
Reserve maintenance including barns
46,839
Materials including small tools
2,461
Fuels Inc. derv, petrol, kerosene & gas oil
1,049
Depreciation
27,804
Other vehicle costs
2,337
Insurance premiums
575
Administration expenses
286
Bank charges
104
Professional Fees
300
Intercompany recharges
18,460
Audit Fees
2,520
Contribution to project
-
Profit on disposal of asset
-
121,127
21,670
121,127
Total Expenditure
142,797
All support costs are in furtherance of the Charitable Activities.
Governance costs included above amount to £2,520 (2020: £2,400).
6. AUDITORS’ REMUNERATION
2021
£
Fees payable to the company’s auditors for the
audit of the company’s annual accounts		 5. EXPENDITURE
2021
Direct
Costs
Support
Costs
£
£
Charitable Activities
Surveys
-
Salaries & related costs
32,691
Staff & volunteers travelling expenses
69
Staff & volunteers training
750
Health & Safety & PPE
681
Property costs including Crown Cottage
5,871
Reserve maintenance including barns
46,839
Materials including small tools
2,461
Fuels Inc. derv, petrol, kerosene & gas oil
1,049
Depreciation
27,804
Other vehicle costs
2,337
Insurance premiums
575
Administration expenses
286
Bank charges
104
Professional Fees
300
Intercompany recharges
18,460
Audit Fees
2,520
Contribution to project
-
Profit on disposal of asset
-
121,127
21,670
121,127
Total Expenditure
142,797
All support costs are in furtherance of the Charitable Activities.
Governance costs included above amount to £2,520 (2020: £2,400).
6. AUDITORS’ REMUNERATION
2021
£
Fees payable to the company’s auditors for the
audit of the company’s annual accounts		 2020
Direct
Costs
Support
Costs
£
£
-
22,907
212
225
577
4,092
5,458
2,199
134
20,516
4,758
1,039
953
176
18,460
2,400
3,853
(16,003)		 2020
Direct
Costs
Support
Costs
£
£
-
22,907
212
225
577
4,092
5,458
2,199
134
20,516
4,758
1,039
953
176
18,460
2,400
3,853
(16,003)
62,117
2,520		 9,839
62,117
71,956
2020
£
2,400
£

7. RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund.

The charge to profit and loss in respect of defined contribution schemes was £1,676 (2020: £1,066). The pension costs are allocated to direct costs and unrestricted funds.

17

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
COST
At 1st January 2021
Additions
Disposals
At 31st December 2021
DEPRECIATION
At 1st January 2021
Charge for year
Depreciation on Disposals
At 31st December 2021
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st December 2021
At 31st December 2020		 Road
Building
Plant &
equipment
£
£
£
132,318
-
32,629
12,482
2,654
30,877
-
-
-
144,800
2,654
63,506
66,159
-
15,574
16,540
332
10,932
-
-
-
82,699
332
26,506
62,101
2,322
37,000
66,159
-
17,055		 TOTAL
£
164,947
46,013
-
210,960
81,733
27,804
-
109,537
101,423
83,214

9. DEBTORS

Amounts falling due within one year
Amounts owed by Group Undertakings
Other debtors
10. CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year
Trade Creditors
Other creditors
Amounts owing to Group Undertakings		 2021
£
214,969
5,692
220,661
2021
£
2,901
4,245
331
7,477		 2020
£
251,086
6,215
257,301
2020
£
255
3,468
64
3,787

18

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

11. ANALYSIS OF FUNDS

General costs fund
Designated fund – Road Repair		 Balance
Increases
Decreases
Transfers
Balance
1st
January
2021
31st
December
2021
£
£
£
£
£
312,871
135,682
(142,797)
(12,792)
292,964
26,147
-
- 12,792
38,939
339,018
135,682
(142,797)
-
331,903

The general costs fund is for future maintenance and running costs of Thameside Nature Park received in grant income from MCT plus the balance of other general funds held by the charity for future work at the site.

The Road and Fencing Repair designated fund has been designated to fund future repairs to the access road at the Nature Park.

12. ULTIMATE PARENT COMPANY

The Trustees regard Essex Wildlife Trust Limited, a company (00638666) and charity (210065) registered in England and Wales, to be the ultimate parent company.

The principal activity of Essex Wildlife Trust Limited is to advance, promote and further the conservation, maintenance and protection of nature reserves across the county of Essex.

The smallest and largest group of undertakings for which group accounts have been drawn up is that headed by Essex Wildlife Trust Limited.

Copies of the consolidated financial statements of Essex Wildlife Trust Limited are available from Abbotts Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Colchester, Essex, CO5 7RZ.

13. COMPANY STATUS

The charity is a company limited by guarantee not having a share capital. In the event of the winding up, under the terms of the Memorandum of Association each member guarantees to contribute a sum not exceeding £10.

14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND GROUP TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES

During the year charges of £12,010 (2020: £12,010) were made to the charity by Essex Wildlife Trust Limited, the parent charity. Included in debtors is £214,969 (2020: £251,086) due from Essex Wildlife Trust Limited. During the year purchases of £331 (2020: £64) were made from Essex Wildlife Sales Limited, fellow subsidiary of Essex Wildlife Trust Limited. Included in creditors is £331 (2020: £64) due to Essex Wildlife Sales Limited.

19

THAMESIDE NATURE PARK LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2021 ( continued )

15. PRIOR PERIOD STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

INCOME
Charitable Activities
Investments
Other
Total income
EXPENDITURE
Charitable Activities
Total expenditure
NET EXPENDITURE
Transfer between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Balance brought forward at 1st
January 2020
Balance carried forward at 31st
December 2020		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
14,501
1,812
1,769
18,082
68,103
68,103
(50,021)
(10,000)
(60,021)
372,892
312,871		 Designated
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
3,853
3,853
(3,853)
10,000
6,147
20,000
26,147		 Total
Funds
2020
£
14,501
1,812
1,769
18,082
71,956
71,956
(53,874)
-
(53,874)
392,892
339,018

20