Prince William is facing criticism from residents over the sale of a major Duchy of Cornwall estate in Devon. Some tenants fear the decision could put their homes and livelihoods at risk. The move has also raised questions about the Duchy’s approach to rural communities.
One longtime royal supporter has even expressed strong anger over the plan.
Prince William faces harsh criticism from Bradninch residents over Duchy of Cornwall estate sale
The Duchy of Cornwall is selling the 3,000-acre Bradninch Estate in Devon. The estate forms part of the Duchy, which provides William with an annual income of around £23 million.
The sale forms part of a wider strategy to redirect investment toward other priorities, including homelessness, farming and environmental projects.
The Observer reported that some tenants received possession orders last month. They were given six months to either purchase their homes or leave.
Tenants have been offered the first opportunity to buy their properties. Eight of the nine farming tenants are exploring the purchase of some or all of their farms. Some residential tenants are also considering buying their homes.
The Duchy said discounts may reflect how long tenants have lived there and investments they made in the properties. It is also offering practical guidance and access to welfare 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 tenants.
“I honestly feel that he’s a custodian rather than an owner,” Palmer said.
One resident expressed even stronger anger.
“I’ve been a royalist all my life and I think Charles was fantastic. William can go to hell,” the tenant said.
Residents also recalled meeting William at a St James’s Palace reception marking the Duchy handover. One tenant said King Charles appeared emotional and interacted with guests, while William left shortly after the formal handover.
A Duchy spokesperson acknowledged that tenants face “important and deeply personal decisions.” The spokesperson said each household would receive individual support while the estate carries out its long-term investment strategy.
The sale has nevertheless left some Bradninch residents questioning what the changes could mean for families who have lived and worked on Duchy land for generations.
