The Growforward Project CIC Granted Planning Permission for Wellbeing Hub, Securing Future of Abandoned Chelfham Mill Boarding School in North Devon

Barnstaple, UK – February 11th, 2025 – After years of abandonment, long negotiations and partial renovation, the future of the sprawling ruin of the former Chelfham Mill residential school in North Devon has been secured by a community initiative, spearheaded by former pupils of the school.

Recognising the unique charm of the site, nestled in a valley surrounded by ancient woodlands and framed by a Victorian steam rail viaduct, with its own meandering riverside setting and historic watermill, The Growforward Project unveiled its ambitious vision for a community wellbeing hub in 2024.

Granted just twelve months to transform the site from a derelict ruin on which no finance was viable for it to be bought and restored, the team and the local community have combined forces to complete a first-stage restoration that has been described as “remarkable” by locals. The group’s hard work paid off last week when planning permission for the project’s additional facilities, on top of the site’s existing residential training establishment permission, was granted by North Devon County Council. North Devon Liberal Democrat MP, Ian Roome, said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that the planning application for The Growforward Project has been approved. Having visited the site myself not too long ago and learned about the inspiring mission behind this initiative, I know what an incredible asset it will be for North Devon. It’s a beautiful site with an incredible team committed to supporting the local community, heritage, and wellbeing. I look forward to seeing the project flourish. Well done to everyone involved!”

The community project team, which consists of ex-pupils, former school staff, neighbours, and the wider local community, is humbled by the vast support shown for the project. With planning permission now secured, a finance deal has been agreed to allow for the purchase of the site, with completion taking place on Monday, February 10, 2025. Sincere thanks are offered to Cambridge and Counties Bank for helping to pull together a finance deal on such an incredibly challenging site.

With the site secured, the project can now focus on delivering its vision to convert the derelict property into a vibrant, not-for-profit, beating heart of the community for generations to come. It will be a centrepiece for wellbeing, community connection, and personal growth for all. Plans for the site include:

Residential wellbeing retreat centre: Planned for 2026, the site’s existing planning permissions will enable the historic schoolhouse, watermill and orchard area to become a serene residential setting, offering workshops, therapeutic experiences, and the delivery of professional wellbeing-linked qualifications by partner organisations.
The Old Apple Press café / bistro: Planned for late 2025, new planning permission has been granted for the development of a tranquil café / bistro and riverside deck. This beautifully designed community venue will serve a full home-cooked menu and provide a warm welcome to the local community. The Old Apple Press will also serve as the main catering facility for the planned wellbeing retreat centre.
Heritage visitors centre: Planned for 2025, new planning permission has been granted for the development of a unique heritage centre which will inform guests about the area’s historic steam railway, viaduct, watermill, and biodiversity. This will help to provide income and to draw visitor and volunteer interest to the not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) project.
Utility and team accommodation spaces: New planning permission has been granted for the development of space around the viaduct piers to serve as the initial and evolving area for site management and team accommodation, essential for the project's ongoing needs. This will assist with attracting volunteers and exchanging labour for accommodation, as well as being a key element to the funding required to secure the purchase of the site and generate income in the early days.

The vision for The Growforward Project is the brainchild of a small founding group, including former pupil of the school, Daniel Argent. Daniel’s career has spanned multiple sectors, including wellbeing and personal development, hospitality, accommodation provision, and events marketing. Speaking about the future of the project, Daniel said:

“I never expected to return to Chelfham after boarding at the school because of my ADHD diagnosis. But life can surprise us all, and it is a remarkable privilege to be a part of the team rejuvenating its stunning assets and location into a project that will benefit so many. The most rewarding aspect is that it will be not-for-profit; a labour of love so to speak. After many years in the business world, I can’t wait to focus solely on delivering benefit to the community. I want to create something that will make a huge difference to many.”
To finance the project, the team have relied on funds from various sources, including personal savings, the sale of a family home, lending from their own businesses, and now the backing of a commercial mortgage lender. It is expected that the site will require at least £3,000,000 of investment over a number of years to develop the project to its highest possible standard, with over £1,000,000 already invested to date. The team expect to raise additional funds through community funding bids, crowdfunding, and creative partnerships with wellbeing and training organisations.

Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member of Economy, Regeneration and Planning, Bratton Fleming Ward, has shown his support for the project:

“I support this new not-for-profit venture because it will bring the old school site back to life, and in time could bring much-needed employment. Chelfham Mill always had such strong connections to the local community, and this is one of their aims – and it is to be applauded.”

Alex Heylin, former pupil and founding member of the project, also expressed his excitement about the new planning permissions secured:

“This milestone brings us one step closer to revitalising this historic site and creating a vibrant community space. We can’t wait to see the transformation unfold and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received so far. This is just the beginning, and now that we’re in legal possession of the site, with planning permission, we can’t wait to be able to throw the gates open to the world, for the wider community to join us in making this place truly unique. We are excited to welcome in all of the volunteers who have been knocking the gates down, at last!”

The project has already established strong partnerships with many local and national charities and organisations, including Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, Yeo Valley Trust, Exmoor Associates, Hakeford Woods, North Devon Voluntary Services, Talking Works, and Focus Counselling Services. With a varied offering of services and community initiatives planned, from mindfulness, ecology and woodland management to degree-level counselling and psychotherapy courses, the project seeks to provide something for everyone. Organisations and community groups looking to explore partnership opportunities are encouraged to reach out via The Growforward Project’s website.

The project is also calling for passionate individuals to join a team of volunteers to help transform the historic site into a vibrant community hub. From mowing the grass and maintaining the grounds to rebuilding the iconic waterwheel, and even writing grant applications, the support of volunteers will play a vital role in preserving the treasured landmark and creating a space that inspires and connects people. An open day is being held on Sunday March 2, 2025, from 11am - 4pm, where the public are invited to explore the site, meet the team behind the project, and learn more about volunteering opportunities.

The local parish council hopes to see the community flourish together, with Alison Bell, Chair, Bratton Fleming Parish Council, stating:

“It’s great news that The Growforward Project has got the go ahead to bring this long-neglected site in the heart of Chelfham back into such a potentially inclusive and outward-facing use. The Parish Council would encourage everyone involved, especially the local community and partner organisations, to work collaboratively and deliver a sustainable facility that will benefit everyone.”

Whilst this first phase of planning permission allows for the purchase of the site and further investment into its rejuvenation, the not-for-profit project is raising additional funds to support the ongoing costs involved in transforming the cherished landmark into a vibrant community hub. More information can be found on the project’s JustGiving page.

For more information, visit www.thegrowforwardproject.co.uk or follow the project on Facebook at The Growforward Project.