Derelict former school could come back into use

A derelict Devon boarding school building, which closed after a child abuse scandal 10 years ago, could come back in to use as a wellbeing retreat.

Chelfham Mill School, in Chelfham, near Barnstaple, closed down after it was at the centre of an inquiry into the physical abuse of pupils, which centred on restraint methods used by staff.

After a two-year inquiry, a member of staff was convicted of indecency against a boy at the school.

A not-for-profit community interest company, Growforward Project, said it had applied for planning permission to transform the site, having had to "endure many years of negativity and risk surrounding this property".

Growforward Project wants to turn the former schoolhouse into a wellbeing and learning retreat, along with a watermill, orchard area, a cafe, bistro, riverside deck and an accommodation block.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the applicants said planning permission had to be granted before February so the purchase could be completed.

The project team is made up of former pupils, staff, local residents and supporters who say they have agreed a deal to buy the property from the owner, a company called Chelfham Mills.

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].