Masterplan and conservation management strategy for Oldway mansion and the estate published today after 18 months of engaging with the community through the ‘Developing a resilient future for Oldway’ project.

Following extensive public consultation, the report concludes that there is overwhelming public support for creating ‘A community-focused health, wellbeing and creative hub in the historic setting of Oldway’.

With key features of the masterplan focussing on restoration of the mansion, outbuildings and grounds, restoration of the gardens, active family use of the Rotunda, improved car parking and a new forecourt to create new gathering and event space. We can now begin the task of assembling a funding strategy and progressing what will be one of the Bay’s most complex regeneration projects.

Recognising that the cost of full restoration is forecasted to be in the region of £54million, the masterplan will be used by us to work with public and private sector partners. A co-investment and delivery approach will be needed that is likely to phased over several years.

Any final plans for the site will need to ensure that Oldway has a viable and sustainable financial future.

The importance of Oldway to local people is well-known, and given the scale of the challenge, any funding needs to be carefully assessed and decided on merit. What is clear is any improvements will be a long-term project, delivered in phases, which is why all options are being considered.

It was recently announced that Torbay was selected as one of The National Lottery Heritage Funds 20 ‘Heritage Places’ – benefitting from a share of £200million over the 10-year partnership. This commitment, together with the designation of being one of the governments ‘Levelling up Partnerships’ shows that the future ambitions for Torbay are being taken seriously.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth for Torbay Council, said; “The ‘Delivering a resilient future for Oldway’ project would not have been possible without support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the work already undertaken by the community. The reports published today are an important and essential first step to giving Oldway a new lease of life.

“Restoring Oldway will require us to work with our public and private sector partners to ensure that together the site has a sustainable future. Other heritage projects around the Bay, show what can be achieved through a partnership approach and by working with the community.”

Since the project has been underway, we have been speaking informally with private sector partners regarding the opportunities for the site. These conversations will continue once the masterplans and the proposed way forward is considered at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 5 December 2023.

Cabinet is also expected to consider approving funding of £1million to allow for essential repair work to be carried out to the main mansion.

Read the full report being considered by Cabinet.