The Land Restoration Trust was launched as a pilot project in 2004 by Homes England (then English Partnerships) to transform derelict, contaminated, and brownfield land into high-quality public open spaces.
Despite significant investment, previous efforts to ringfence long-term funding for these projects had failed. Land was restored, but without an organisation dedicated to its ongoing management, it often fell back into disrepair.
The Land Trust emerged as a new solution, first piloted on National Coalfield Programme sites. Through this programme, it had become clear that there was opportunity beyond simply reclaiming land for jobs and housing – it was about creating vibrant, sustainable communities where people wanted to live and work.
Land unsuitable for development could be transformed into vital public open spaces, but its success depended on its long-term management. This principle of long-term stewardship for community benefit has guided the Trust ever since.
Following the success of its pilot, the Land Trust was formally established as an independent charity in 2010. Today, we manage over 90 sites across the UK, ensuring these spaces continue to serve people and nature for generations to come.