Residents' outrage as charity looks at selling retirement home by sea

THE future of retirement apartments in one of Devon's most expensive towns is in doubt after its charity owners confirmed the property might be sold.

- by PAUL GREAVES

Woodcot, a Grade II*-listed building and gardens in Salcombe, is owned by national charity Age UK.

The charity has told tenants there are no restrictions on selling the property and it is exploring the possibility of putting it on the market.

Concerned relatives have condemned Age UK for what they call a “betrayal” of its mission. One elderly resident said: “We face the prospect of being evicted so the house can be sold off at huge profit to developers for luxury apartments - it’s not right.”

Reports suggest at least two investors are eyeing the land and are involved in talks. The charity says no decision has been made.

Salcombe Town Council has now issued a statement. It says: “In April, Age UK informed the council that it is exploring the potential sale of Woodcot, citing rising maintenance costs, essential major works and financial pressures that mean there is a significant annual deficit that Age UK can no longer afford in the current financial climate. Age UK indicated that no final decision has been made and that no action is likely before 2026 at the earliest.”

The council has asked the charity to answer a number of questions.