Project takeaways
Planning for the long term
This project shows the value of long term investment in a business model and strategy. Over the decades, the ongoing rental income has allowed for buildings to be maintained and conserved; but it shouldn’t be thought that consistency stifles innovation. Alongside this, the Trust has expanded its team to develop its conservation work and looked to increase the number of people able to experience the properties with short term lets.
Test and learn approach
In each case, the thinking has been done with the board and management; before testing and learning the lessons. York Conservation Trust’s innovations include sharing skills development on historic pointing, the use of bike-based transport for maintenance in the city, and discussions over the carbon footprint of 500-year-old buildings.