31/07/2024
Hello all - we need your help. As some of you may know, we have been involved in a lengthy planning battle with the Torridge planning authority. They believe we do not have valid reasons to have at least one senior member of staff living on-site and do not see a future for the business, citing staffing issues as one of their main reasons. It seems they are keen to see us fail.
We have submitted a new planning application for a location our neighboring farmer and the Clinton estate have kindly offered, provided we are allowed on-site accommodation. This is so Claire, the centre manager, can live on-site and be available for any problems or issues. Professional advice has confirmed our view that having a senior staff member on-site is essential for safeguarding, fire precautions, site security, and more.
There is a limited period during which the public can comment on the application. This is where you can help us. As individuals who have been involved with Great Potheridge in various capacities, please follow this link to submit your views and support for our application: Planning Application Link. https://publicaccess.torridge.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=SGPFJWQKGDN00
Depending on your connection to Great Potheridge and Encompass Training, you could comment on one or more of the following points:
The need for a senior person from Encompass to be available when groups are staying at Great Potheridge House for child protection reasons (Claire is the designated deputy safeguarding lead), fire safety, medical emergencies, etc.
The value of our business to schools, families, colleges, and youth groups, especially local ones. Your views on why we are important for the local community. Do we have a positive impact on the young people who visit us and on the wider community by bringing business to the area, offering local employment, and supporting other local businesses?
The benefit of having a person living on-site year-round to monitor the property and access lane to adjoining farm and estate land, which is otherwise in a remote location. The benefit that Encompass Training has brought to the upkeep and preservation of Great Potheridge House over the past 14 years.
Thank you in advance for your support. If you cannot help, no worries. We hope to know the result by September. As you can imagine, this is a very worrying time for us. After being shut down for over a year during COVID and now facing the cost and uncertainty of this planning battle, a positive outcome would allow us to continue making a difference in the lives of hundreds of children, young people, and adults while preserving and improving one of Devon’s most historic buildings.
