Breathing new life into heritage buildings

The cause

From the medieval streets to the famous minster, York is a powerhouse of cultural and built heritage. Thanks to the work of York Conservation Trust, the time-worn buildings are able to keep up with the changing needs of this vibrant city.

The Trust’s members have been conserving and adapting the city’s historic properties for over 75 years. Today, the Trust has over 85 properties in its portfolio, including The Assembly Rooms, The Old Rectory and the striking De Grey Rooms.

Our support

With loan finance support from CAF Bank, the charity has the funds it needs to buy significant buildings which have fallen into disrepair.

After full restoration, the Trust leases out these properties as business premises or homes. By providing long-term loans, the Trust is able to fund building and conservation work as well as maintaining its resilience.

The impact

Thanks to the work of the Trust, York’s architectural heritage is being preserved for future generations. And it’s being done sustainably – including retrofitting energy-efficient heating systems into timber-framed structures as well as ensuring that the building remain a part of York’s life, supporting opportunities for work and a sustainable city.

Honed over decades, it’s a successful business model that aims to protect York’s reputation as one of the UK’s most magnificent places to live and work.

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.