## **The Charles and Mary A Ward Recreation Ground 521263** 

## **TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31ST MARCH 2025** 

The trustee presents the annual report and the financial statements for the year to the 31 March 2025. 

## **Objects** 

To ensure that open spaces, recreation grounds or playgrounds are maintained and made accessible for the wellbeing and enjoyment of the whole community. 

## **Structure** 

_1. Original Gift (1931)_ 

   - _Mary A. Ward gifted approximately 6 acres at Bents Grange to the Borough._ 

   - _The land was placed in trust, requiring it to be used solely as recreation grounds._ 

   - _The trust deed created a permanent obligation on the authority to maintain open and recreational space for public benefit._ 

_2. Ministerial Consent for Appropriation (1950)_ 

   - _In August 1950, the Minister of Health approved the appropriation of 3.7 acres of the trust land._ 

   - _This land was incorporated into the Central College of Further Education._ 

   - _The approval did not remove the Council’s duty to maintain equivalent recreational provision._ 

_3. Replacement Land Agreement (1962–1963)_ 

   - _In December 1962, the Parks, Cemeteries and Cremation Committee agreed to provide replacement recreation land._ 

   - _The replacement site comprised approximately 12 acres at Higher Lime Farm._ 

   - _The Finance Committee formally accepted the proposal in January 1963._ 

   - _This exchange was intended to ensure continued compliance with the trust deed._ 

## **Funding and Reserves Policy** 

Under the terms of the trust deed, the Borough of Oldham is obligated to ensure that sufficient financial resources are made available to maintain the grounds and guarantee continued public access. 

## **Activities** 

This area is intentionally left to develop naturally to support biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and low-impact public access. 



It is a great space for the public to enjoy walking, running, general outdoor exercise, and is also a fantastic spot for dog walking. 

## **Financial Statements** 

|**Income & Expenditure**||
|---|---|
|**statement**||
|**Expenditure**|**£66,264.75**|
|Income||
|Activities|0.00|
|Council Contribution|(£66,264.75<br>)|
|**Total Income**|**(£66,264.75**<br>**)**|
|Balance Sheet||
|Net Book Value as at 31/3/25||
|12 Acres  - Higher Lime Park|**£52,820**|