Tenants on a Devon estate have been left 'enormously stressed' following plans by the Duchy of Cornwall to sell off land. The Bradninch estate, near Cullompton, has been part of the duchy for centuries and is now owned by Prince William as the eldest son of the monarch.
The duchy provides William, the 25th Duke of Cornwall, with a private income of nearly £23 million each year, used to fund the charitable, private, and official lives of his family. The duchy stated that the sales are part of an ongoing review into where it can make the 'most social and environmental impact', with tenants being given the opportunity to purchase their farms.
Local resident John Palmer wrote to The Times, describing the news as unexpected and shocking, and enormously stressful for tenants and employees. He noted that while tenants have first option to buy, some may struggle to raise capital in challenging times for British farmers.
George Dunn, chief executive of the Tenant Farmers Association, expressed disappointment but acknowledged the duchy is giving tenants first refusal. He stated there are no reports of tenants receiving notices to quit, but noted potential upheaval if tenants cannot or will not purchase.
Will Bax, chief executive of the Duchy of Cornwall, said the decisions are tough but made with a long-term view. He emphasised that the duchy aims to manage sales with compassion, giving tenants time and support, and that many tenants see the opportunity to buy their properties for the first time.
