More than 500 sign petition against public closure of Shute Barton

More than 500 people have signed a petition against the National Trust's permanent closure of medieval manor house Shute Barton to the public.

The petition was set up over the weekend, and the milestone of 500 signatures was reached by Monday afternoon. It has also been shared more than 250 times on social media.

Last week, the National Trust announced in a letter to Shute Barton volunteer guides that the house, which is in the village of Shute between Axminster and Colyton, would become exclusively a holiday property, and that the general public would no longer be able to access it.

The letter, from National Trust manager David Ford, also informed Shute Barton guides that their services would no longer be required, saying COVID-related cutbacks were behind the decision to close, which was made without any public consultation.

Dr Bijan Omrani, secretary and acting chair of the Shute Parochial Church Council, said: "The overwhelming response to this petition shows how deeply this matters to the local community.

"It has been extraordinary to see how everyone has come together to oppose this move by the National Trust which will damage the region, and prevent local people from enjoying their heritage."

The parish council of Shute has also unanimously condemned the closure of Shute Barton to the public.

In a statement, they said: "The decision seems very short-sighted and... the National Trust have not fully realised the wider consequences of the closure.

"The open days introduce people to the area's history and heritage, build a sense of community and spread the word about the trust's work.

"Opening Shute Barton draws in visitors to the area and supports the church and other hospitality businesses in the area."

The statement added: "Closing the access, which was only ever four weekends a year, means that the house will now only be accessible to a very select few, those with the means to stay in the property."

The parish council also called for proper discussions and consultation to resolve the situation.

The National Trust have been asked to comment on how the decision to close Shute Barton was taken, and to fully explain the business reasons for its closure. However, campaigners say they have not yet responded to these questions.

The petition is available online at www.change.org/p/national-trust-keep-shute-barton-national-trust-open-to-the-public