NEWTON Abbot and District Civic Society is marking its approaching 30th anniversary by setting its sights on an ambitious legacy: securing the future of Old Forde House for generations to come.

The Society, founded in 1997, is planning to establish an independent charitable organisation dedicated to acquiring the historic Newton Abbot property and its surrounding grounds, with the aim of preserving the estate and developing it as a lasting asset for the local community.

The proposed initiative would seek to protect one of Newton Abbot’s most significant historic landmarks while creating opportunities for education, cultural activities, community events and greater public involvement in the building’s future.

Over the past three decades, the Society has campaigned for the protection of the town’s heritage, encouraged high standards in planning and design, and promoted awareness of Newton Abbot’s history and identity.

Now, as it approaches its anniversary in 2027, it believes securing Forde House would provide a fitting legacy for its work.

The Society’s president, Keith Stokes-Smith, said: ‘As we approach our thirtieth anniversary, we remain as passionate about Newton Abbot as the people who established the Society in 1997.

‘Throughout those thirty years, our aim has been simple: to celebrate what makes Newton Abbot special and to help ensure that its heritage and character are protected for future generations’, he added.

Describing the importance of Old Forde House, Mr Stokes-Smith added: ‘Old Forde House is one of the most, if not the most, important historic buildings in our town and, indeed, in Devon.

‘We believe its future matters not only because of its architectural significance, but because it forms part of the story of Newton Abbot itself.

‘This is not simply a heritage project.

‘It is an opportunity for the community to come together, safeguard an irreplaceable asset and create something that will benefit local people for generations to come’.

The proposed charity would have a range of objectives, including preserving and maintaining the historic estate, advancing education and the arts, promoting culture and community activities, and encouraging public access and participation.

It would also explore ways to make the property financially sustainable in the long term without compromising its historic character.

The Society acknowledges that acquiring and managing a property of this scale would present significant challenges.

However, it believes community ownership and charitable management offer an opportunity to safeguard the estate while ensuring it continues to deliver public benefits.

Work is already under way to engage individuals and organisations with expertise in heritage conservation, law, finance, fundraising, property management, education, marketing and community engagement.

The Society is now inviting residents, businesses, community organisations and supporters of Newton Abbot’s heritage to get involved, whether by offering professional expertise, practical assistance, financial resources or their time.

‘Projects of this scale are never achieved by a small group of individuals acting alone’, Mr Stokes-Smith said.

‘Success will depend upon the enthusiasm, commitment and goodwill of the wider community.

‘We want people to feel that this is their project and that they have a stake in securing the future of one of Newton Abbot’s greatest historic assets’, he added.

Anyone interested in supporting the project can contact Newton Abbot and District Civic Society by emailing [email protected]