After 130 years in use as a Masonic Lodge, the Palace’s return to the open market has threatened its fascinating heritage. Listed Buildings such as the Old Duchy Palace are freqently bought by developers who, on failing to get planning permission, allow them to fall into dereliction, contributing to an increasing cycle of decline amongst the 20,000 buildings deemed 'at risk' in the UK. We aim to stop this cycle of decline and reinforce a cycle of regeneration in places like Lostwithiel.

The Trust bought the Palace in January 2009 to remove it from the open market and initiate the restoration project. We are working in conjuction with the Cornwall Buildings Preservation Trust on the understanding that they will take ownership of the building at a future time. We aim to undertake a lengthy restoration and preservation process, and to facilitate a wide variety of sustainable uses for the building as a heritage site, a community space, office and retail space.