FODC wishes to clarify several points following the Archdeacon’s recent statement.
The licence between FODC and the Parochial Church Council (PCC) runs for 25 years, with 18 years remaining, and does not include the North Aisle. FODC also holds documentation confirming that the appropriate faculty approvals were obtained.
In December, discussions took place regarding the future of the licence. FODC indicated that it was open, in principle, to setting it aside subject to appropriate safeguards to ensure that the cafe income continues to support the maintenance and preservation of the church.
FODC had planned to open the café on 26 March, prior to a funeral being arranged. Upon learning the date of the funeral, the trustees promptly set a new opening date which the bereaved family fully supported and appreciated the consideration. The café therefore opened on 29 March.
The Incumbent Priest in Charge (IPIC) changed the locks shortly beforehand, referring to a “critical incident.” FODC has not received further details but continues to seek access to the premises in line with the licence.
FODC also wishes to make clear that it has not restricted access to the café space and remains committed to working collaboratively with the PCC and clergy.
Separately, FODC issued notice to Droxford Community Hub (DCH) in relation to the sublicence. The trustees were left with no choice but to issue notice to DCH. This was because the sublicence to DCH states that as a consequence of the space being available rent free, DCH should agree with FODC as to whom to allocate any surplus profit. At a meeting in July 2025, DCH advised FODC they would allocate approximately 95% of surplus profits independently and only the 5% remaining would be subject to discussion with FODC. Moreover, DCH advised they had been planning this for over a year and had set up a community fund for that purpose. This intention was so clearly against the terms of the sublicence, and we advised DCH that if they proceeded with this course of action, then the licence would be terminated. DCH did eventually, grudgingly meet to agree the distribution of surplus profits in 2025 but stated repeatedly that they would not do so again.
FODC remains committed to constructive dialogue and to ensuring that all funds raised are used primarily to support the long-term care and preservation of the church for the benefit of the wider community. To date, FODC has raised £750,000.
However, the existing licence is now under threat, following the Archdeacon’s public statement that she wishes it to be set aside. In hindsight, FODC and the PCC recognise that establishing Wilfrid’s Cafe with a degree of independence—based on the legal advice given at the time—was a mistake.
FODC would welcome the opportunity to reopen the café; however, there are concerns that access to the premises may be restricted, as previously indicated. It remains unclear what the Archdeacon’s intentions are. There is also concern that the current situation may place the long-term future of Droxford Church at risk.
In conclusion, FODC has always acted in the best interests of our beautiful historic church and remains committed to its donors, who give funds in good faith that the money will be spent primarily on the church building. FODC trustees are grateful to all those who have supported us throughout this unfortunate episode.
