Seeking the best for the young people of this area
Statement Regarding The Old Grammar School Garden, Esplanade, Fowey (February 2025)
The Trustees of the Fowey Grammar School Foundation (FGSF) are committed to fulfilling the charity’s core purpose: supporting the education and development of young people in Fowey and the surrounding area. As a registered charity, we are legally obligated to manage our assets responsibly, ensuring they generate fair value to provide financial assistance to students through grants and educational support.
The Old Grammar School Garden (OGSG) is one of the Foundation’s key assets, currently leased to Fowey Town Council (FTC) under a full repairing and insuring lease at a very low peppercorn rent. While we recognise the community’s appreciation of this space, it is essential that its management aligns with our obligations as Trustees to safeguard and maximise the Foundation’s resources for the benefit of its beneficiaries.
Reviewing the Lease with Fowey Town Council
Following a detailed review, we have identified several concerns that have led to our decision to serve notice to end FTC’s current tenancy. We remain open to discussions on a new agreement — on fair and reasonable terms — provided the following issues are addressed:
Fair Market Rent
The charity must ensure its assets generate appropriate revenue. In line with this, we have suggested a revised annual rent increase, in line with market norms, for consideration by FTC and all other interested parties.
Planning Designation
As the authority responsible for the Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP), FTC designated the OGSG as a Local Green Space — without the Foundation’s consent and despite holding a lease on the site (ie there being a clear conflict of interest). This designation imposes restrictions on the site’s future use and does not align with the Foundation’s duty to manage its assets effectively in the interests of the young people of Fowey. Despite repeated requests, FTC has declined to amend the NDP, despite having the power to do so — it being our view that FTC’s decision to impose a restrictive planning designation without landlord consent disregards the charity’s duty to manage its assets responsibly in accordance with Charity Commission regulations.
Next Steps
As part of our responsibility to ensure the garden remains a valuable asset for the Foundation’s beneficiaries, we are now considering future options for the site. These include:
1. Submitting a Planning Pre-Application
This will explore potential future uses for the site, including low-impact concessions and educational visits from the two local schools.
It may include a small, sympathetic structure to support such activities, while preserving the site’s character.
2. Engaging with the Community
We are considering hosting a public meeting at Fowey River Academy (FRA) to discuss potential uses for the garden.
This would allow interested parties, potential tenants, and community members to contribute ideas and explore solutions that align with the Foundation’s charitable objectives.
3. Commissioning a Formal Site Valuation
The Foundation will engage a chartered surveyor to conduct a full valuation of the site, assessing its current condition, market rental potential, and alternative uses.
This will provide clear financial data to support negotiations with future tenants and ensure we are fulfilling our duty to manage the asset responsibly.
4. Exploring Alternative Revenue-Generating Uses
Investigating options such as event hire, pop-up concessions, or seasonal markets that could generate income while maintaining community access.
Considering potential eco-tourism or educational partnerships, such as hosting nature workshops, outdoor learning spaces, or heritage initiatives.
5. Engaging with Potential Commercial or Community Partners
Reaching out to local businesses, hospitality venues, and community groups that may be interested in leasing or co-managing the space.
Seeking proposals for creative, sustainable, and revenue-generating uses that align with the Foundation’s charitable objectives.
6. Legal Review of the Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) Designation
The Foundation is assessing legal and planning options regarding the Local Green Space designation, which was imposed without our consent.
We will explore formal mechanisms for seeking an amendment to the NDP to ensure the site’s designation does not unfairly restrict its sustainable future use.
We appreciate that this is a matter of public interest and we remain committed to constructive dialogue with the community and potential partners. Our primary duty is to the young people of Fowey, ensuring that the assets entrusted to us continue to support their education and future opportunities.
Signed,
The Trustees
Fowey Grammar School Foundation
