King Charles Reportedly Disappointed by Prince William’s Decision to Sell Historic Duchy Estate
King Charles is reportedly disappointed by Prince William’s decision to sell part of the historic Duchy Estate in Devon, with concerns raised about the impact on tenants and rural communities.
William inherited the Duchy of Cornwall when Charles became King in 2022. His father had managed the estate for decades, but the Prince of Wales has since made changes to how the property portfolio is run.
The reported sale of the Bradninch Estate has drawn criticism from some residents, particularly tenants who fear they may have to leave their homes if they cannot afford to buy them. The Duchy has said the sale is intended to support wider priorities, including tackling homelessness and climate change.
According to The Observer, a friend of the King claimed Charles was “dismayed” by the situation and suggested the decision was not one he would have made himself.
“It’s absolutely not what the King would ever have done,” the source reportedly said. “The King adores William, he recognises that he must be the Prince of Wales that he wants to be but that doesn’t mean he’s not sad.”
The comments suggest that, while Charles respects his son’s independence in managing the Duchy, he may have reservations about the consequences of the sale. However, the account comes from an unnamed source and has not been confirmed by Buckingham Palace.
The source also suggested Charles hopes William will consider the importance of preserving rural communities, describing them as “the backbone of Britain”.
During his years as Prince of Wales, Charles reportedly visited the area regularly and maintained personal connections with local residents. The source said he sent condolence letters when families experienced bereavements and gave Christmas presents to some people in the community.
Some residents have contrasted those experiences with their interactions under William’s management of the Duchy. According to the report, tenants have expressed disappointment over the lack of personal contact during the current dispute.
One local recalled Charles’s previous visit, saying: “King Charles worked the room, he remembered us all. He was very emotional, he was in tears at one point.”
The resident contrasted that experience with William’s appearance at an event, claiming the Prince walked directly to the stage for the handover before leaving. The account reflects the resident’s perspective and does not establish William’s broader approach to engaging with the community.
The dispute has placed renewed attention on the practical consequences of the Duchy’s property decisions. Tenants have reportedly raised concerns about valuations and whether the offered discounts will make buying their homes affordable.
For families who have lived and worked on the estate for years, the uncertainty goes beyond a property transaction. Their concerns centre on housing security, the cost of remaining in their homes and the future of the local community.
The reported criticism also highlights the challenge William faces in balancing the Duchy’s financial and charitable priorities with the interests of tenants. No public statement from Charles has confirmed that he personally opposes the sale.
The controversy comes at a time when the Royal Family faces wider scrutiny over its responsibilities and public role. How the Duchy handles the concerns raised by residents may influence perceptions of William’s leadership as he continues his work as Prince of Wales.
For now, the reported comments from the King’s friend suggest a difference in perspective over how the historic estate should be managed. Whether the Duchy changes its approach in response to tenants’ concerns remains to be seen.
