Groundwork Leicester

Leicester Ecology Trust

Leicester Ecology Trust
LET was established in 1987 as a company limited by guarantee. It also became a registered charity. One of its first achievements was to set up the Leicester Recycling Centre. The Centre collected a wide range of recyclables from both the public and businesses. It broadened its work by undertaking a 20,000 house kerbside recycling collection, believed to be the largest in the UK.

LET's next major initiative was to set up the Low Energy House (a fore-runner of the EcoHouse), by refurbishing a small terraced house belonging to the City Council. The House demonstrated a wide range of environmental features and was open to visitors, including school groups.

During the late 1980s, Leicester City Council became more directly involved in environmental activity. It took the lead in developing the Riverside Park as a 'country park' in the heart of the city and incorporating some of the best wildlife habitats in Leicester. It set up a network of glass & paper recycling banks and promoted energy efficiency throughout its housing stock. Gradually Leicester became recognised as a pioneer of urban environmental good practice and attracted many visits from other cities and organisations.

The Environment City concept was developed by LET Director, David Nicholls, in response to this interest. Working in partnership with the Royal Society for Nature Conservation a national model was developed which would identify and promote the 'best' example of a UK city. All UK cities were invited to apply. In Leicester, a local partnership involving LET, the City Council, DeMontfort University, the Chamber of Commerce and VAL submitted a bid. Leicester was subsequently awarded the title in 1990 and become Britain's first Environment City.

Leicester Environment City Trust

• Set up in 1990/1 as an independent charity to promote the Environment City message.
• LET was a Board member and worked very closely with LECT.
• Ian Roberts recruited as Director of LECT.
• Secured a 1M grant from Europe for the Environment City programme.
• Pioneered getting businesses to respond to the environmental agenda.
• Worked very closely with the City Council and County Council to develop environmental policies and practice.
• Set up and managed 8 Specialist Working Groups drawing together experts around key environmental themes.

Groundwork Leicester
& Leicestershire
Parkfield, Western Park
Leicester, LE3 6HX

T 0116 222 0222
F 0116 255 2343
E info@gwll.org.uk