Earlier this year, we announced the collaboration project between the Topsham Adventure Centre (TAC) and the Topsham Community Association (TCA) to revitalise the Dorothy Holman Centre (DHC) to provide a venue that meets the needs of both the 1st Sea Scouts, and for the charity CEDA, as well as giving the whole community greatly improved facilities at the Recreation Ground (Rec).
The project extends and improves the centre, providing a refreshed and more functional community space for all. The site of the old scout hut will also be properly landscaped and provide a new entrance to the Rec. The proposal includes a public toilet, making time spent at the recreation ground more comfortable for everyone.
We’re pleased to announce that planning permission for the project was granted in August so now it’s full steam ahead to work to raise the remainder of the funding. You can access the planning documents via the council planning portal here (26/0364/FUL). The ground floor and site plans are below.
TAC has raised around £300,000 in funds and pledges and will now start a fresh fundraising campaign, seeking grants from existing and new grant funders, the indication being that with approximately 50% of the funds in the kitty, other funders will want to be part of this exciting project.
The absolute earliest any construction might happen is summer 2027 and TCA is working with the existing DHC customers to minimise the impact of the project during the construction phase.
Ground Floor Plan
Site Plan
Dorothy Holman Centre external pictures January 2026
