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Duchy tenants may have to buy farms or leave as Prince William plans sell-off
The Duchy of Cornwall plans to sell up to 20% of its land and property over the next decade, prompting some tenant farmers to consider buying their farms or facing a move. The proposed sales have caused distress and uncertainty among tenants, while the Duchy says it is working with each family to find a suitable outcome.
The Tenant Farmers Association estimates that up to 40 farm holdings across Devon, Cornwall, Herefordshire and the Midlands could be affected. The Duchy has about 700 agricultural lettings, including around 300 whole farm holdings, and expects the sales to raise £500 million for investment in local communities, affordable housing and environmental projects. Its rural director says the estate hopes, where possible, to sell farms to their tenants, but the association says fair alternatives are needed for those unable or unwilling to buy.
In short
- Duchy plans to sell up to 20% of its estate.
- Up to 40 farm holdings could be affected.
- Sales are intended to raise £500 million for housing, communities and nature.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The Duchy can argue that selling some land and property will free up capital for investment in local communities, affordable housing and environmental projects. Offering tenants the chance to buy their farms could also give families greater security and ownership, while working with each household may allow outcomes to reflect individual circumstances.
The case against
Tenant farmers can argue that a sale programme risks disrupting established livelihoods and communities, especially when buying a farm may be beyond a tenant’s means or not what they want. They may reasonably seek secure, fair alternatives for those who cannot or choose not to buy, and question whether the public benefits justify the uncertainty imposed on affected families.
Explained simply
The Duchy of Cornwall is a large estate that owns land and property across England, including farms let to tenant farmers. The Prince of Wales, currently Prince William, is the estate’s Duke and oversees its affairs through the Duchy.
Tenant farmers rent the land they farm, rather than owning it. If a farm is sold, a tenant may be offered the chance to buy it, while those who cannot or do not want to buy may need another arrangement.
The issue matters because farming families’ homes and livelihoods can depend on their tenancy, and a change of ownership can affect local communities. The Duchy’s plans also relate to how it uses income from its property to support investment in housing, communities and environmental work.