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Prince William The sale of a major Duchy of Cornwall estate in Devon is facing criticism from residents. Some tenants fear that the decision could put their homes and livelihoods at risk. The move has also raised questions about the duchy’s approach to rural communities.
A longtime royal supporter has also expressed strong anger at the plan.
Prince William faces fierce criticism from Bradninch residents over sale of Duchy of Cornwall property
The Duchy of Cornwall is selling the 3,000-acre Bradninch estate in Devon. The estate is part of the duchy, which provides William with an annual income of approximately £23 million.
The sale is part of a broader strategy to redirect investment toward other priorities including homelessness, farming and environmental projects.
reviewer It is reported that some tenants had received possession orders last month. They were given six months to either buy their homes or leave.
Tenants have been provided the first opportunity to purchase their property. Eight of the nine farming tenants are exploring the possibility of purchasing some or all of their farms. Some residential tenants are also considering purchasing their own homes.
Duchy said discounts may reflect how long tenants have lived there and how much they have invested in the properties. It is also providing practical guidance and access to wellness and mental health support.
Bradninch resident Mary Ryan, a former GP, criticized the sale and questioned its impact on residents. Her husband, surgeon John Palmer, also described a feeling of “abandonment” among the tenants.
“I honestly feel like he’s a mentor rather than an owner,” Palmer said.
One resident expressed even more anger.
“I’ve been a royalist all my life and I think Charles was brilliant. William can go to hell,” Tenant said.
Residents also recalled meeting William at a reception at St James’s Palace to mark the handover of the duchy. One tenant said King Charles appeared emotional and chatted to guests, while William left shortly after the formal handover.
A spokesperson for the Duchy acknowledged that tenants face “important and deeply personal decisions”. The spokesperson said each family will receive individual support while the estate pursues its long-term investment strategy.
The sale has nevertheless forced some residents of Bradninch to question what these changes might mean for the families who have lived and worked on the duchy land for generations.