Despite initial nervousness about the impact of the recession, the National Trust (NT) has experienced its best ever financial performance, according to the 2009/10 annual report.
The press release states as follows: ‘ A drop in income from investments was more than compensated by successfully capitalising on increase in people holidaying in the UK, leading to increased visitor numbers and membership growth which helped support a strong commercial performance. Our net gain for the year increased to a record £58.7 million, 2.5 per cent higher than the long-term target of 20 per cent, with conservation project spend breaking the £100 million mark for the first time. Visitor numbers to our pay-for-entry properties undoubtedly played a key role in boosting all-round performance, with numbers increasing by 16.2 per cent on the previous year to a total of 17.2 million.’
Chairman, Simon Jenkins, said: ‘In difficult economic times the benefits the Trust provides to the nation become even more precious. These benefits rely on promoting the appreciation of beauty, fresh air, the natural world and a kinship with the past. The Trust exists to welcome people to these pleasures and our results last year reflect a hunger for them.’
Other highlights from 2009/10 include:
* National Trust membership grew by 106,000 to a total 3.7 million, contributing £125.2 million to income (£122.0m in 2008/9)
* Income from commercial activities, including catering, retail and holiday cottages, increased to £54.7m (£50.4m). This meant that the contribution these enterprises make to the Trust’s charitable funds increased by 45 per cent on the previous year.
* The number of volunteers helping open Trust places to the public and carry out vital conservation work increased to 61,000
* A public appeal raised over £3 million to save Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland, and over 400 acres of surrounding land for the nation following its acceptance in lieu of tax.
Andy Copestake, the Trust’s Director of Finance, puts the positive outcome for the year down to the Trust’s long-term approach to planning and taking decisive action in response to the economic downturn.
National Trust Annual Report: LINK
