UPDATE: The transformation of Chelfham Mill into a groundbreaking community hub is underway, with the ambitious GrowForward Project gaining momentum. This initiative, which focuses on heritage restoration, environmental stewardship, and mental wellbeing, is set to redefine community engagement in North Devon.
Just announced, the project has attracted overwhelming support from local residents, charities, and regional institutions, signaling a significant shift towards community-led regeneration. Over the past two years, a dedicated yet largely unfunded team has worked tirelessly to reclaim the derelict Chelfham Mill site, which is now partially restored and actively hosting community activities.
The project has received numerous letters of support from mental health leaders and government officials.
“The GrowForward Project is a brilliantly conceived programme to convert the former special needs school into a centre for restoration and rejuvenation,”
stated Andrew Bell, CEO of the UNESCO North Devon Biosphere.
The vision behind the GrowForward Project is multifaceted. It aims to refurbish historical buildings, including the iconic Grade II listed Chelfham Viaduct, and establish a mental wellbeing learning center, a riverside bistro, and a heritage center that highlights the area’s industrial history. Participants will have access to training programs up to degree level in counseling and psychotherapy, while visitors can enjoy community-focused hospitality and exhibitions on local heritage, such as the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.
Daniel Argent, director of community and communications for the project, describes the undertaking as “exhausting but overwhelmingly positive,” citing the strong interest and backing received throughout North Devon. A former pupil at Chelfham Mill, Argent proposed the project to colleagues who were initially skeptical. However, as support grew, so did the project’s viability.
The community aspect has been pivotal. Earlier today, on December 4, 2023, the GrowForward team hosted a successful event focused on the valley’s waterways and biodiversity. Supported by the National Trust and the Environment Agency, the event achieved full capacity, with some attendees turned away. A social media post thanking supporters garnered over 160 likes, reflecting high public interest and backing for the initiative.
“This project is a truly visionary undertaking, transforming an overgrown site into a sanctuary that offers immense value to the community and the environment,” said Devon County Councillor Andrea Davis. The project’s inclusivity is notable, featuring neurodivergent-led programs and spaces designed for sensory-considerate engagement.
Local organizations such as Hakeford Woods and the Barnstaple & Yeo Valley Railway Trust are collaborating with GrowForward to create a cohesive community ecosystem. The approach fosters cross-referral and resource pooling, enhancing wellbeing, culture, and environmental stewardship.
Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, emphasized its potential as a model for community-led regeneration. The project aims to expand social prescribing and nature-based therapies, significantly impacting mental health support in the area.
With plans to fully open by 2026, the GrowForward Project is positioning Chelfham as a destination for ethical tourism and holistic wellbeing. The timeline for completion hinges on successful funding bids, including support from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Current projections suggest that most facilities could be operational by 2026-2027, with restoration of the remaining structures contingent on additional funding.
As the GrowForward Project continues to gain traction, the team remains hopeful that ongoing community and institutional support will unlock its full potential, providing long-term benefits for North Devon and beyond.
