Prince William has reportedly been left unhappy after reading criticism on a major Duchy of Cornwall decision, prompting fresh efforts to address complaints surrounding the sale of the Bradninch estate in Devon.
The Prince of Wales inherited the historic estate portfolio from King Charles when he became Duke of Cornwall in 2022. However, his decision to sell the 3,500-acre Bradninch estate has attracted criticism from residents and tenants who say the process failed to recognise their long-standing contributions.
Some tenants complained that they had invested considerable time and money improving their farms and homes, only to feel that their efforts were being overlooked during the sale process.
The handling of the sale also prompted concerns among residents, with some arguing that they had not been treated fairly or given sufficient consideration before the decision was made.
Following the backlash, the Duchy of Cornwall has reportedly apologised to affected tenants and promised fresh valuations of their properties, according to The Observer.
Sources claimed William was “not happy” after reading the report and subsequently spoke with the Duchy’s rural director, Matthew Morris, to discuss the concerns.
The estate is now working towards arranging new independent valuations, with tenants and the Duchy jointly instructing the process. This is intended to provide a clearer assessment of the properties involved and address some of the complaints raised.
Morris has also reportedly agreed to reconsider how money spent by tenants on improvements to their farms and homes should be recognised.
However, the proposed changes have not yet convinced everyone. Some residents remain cautious about whether the latest assurances will lead to meaningful outcomes.
One tenant reportedly expressed that frustration by saying “talk is cheap”, adding that the “proof will be in the pudding”.
The controversy has also attracted attention because King Charles was reportedly dismayed by the sale. The monarch has previously expressed his belief that rural communities are the backbone of Britain.
A spokesperson for the Duchy of Cornwall said tenants were “being supported through the process on an individual basis”, describing the decisions as important and deeply personal.
The representative added that practical guidance from the estate team, independent welfare and mental health support services, and ongoing discussions were available to help tenants understand their individual circumstances.
“These services have been available for many years and remain available throughout this process,” the spokesperson said.
The Duchy also explained that the changes formed part of a long-term strategy to direct future investment towards areas where it could deliver the greatest benefit for communities, farming, nature and the local economy.
For William, the challenge now is to ensure that the promises made to tenants translate into tangible improvements. Although the new valuations represent a response to the criticism, some residents are still waiting to see whether their concerns will be properly addressed.
