Sale fears over historic estate on Shropshire border
The historic Patshull Estate on the Shropshire border could be put up for sale, leaving tenants fearing they could be forced out of their homes and jobs.
The centuries-old estate, which is owned by The Crown Estate – which manages the Queen’s public estate – is made up of about 3,600 acres of agricultural land and property in Patshull, near Pattingham.
But while some residents – including tenant farmers – want to buy their homes, they claim The Crown Estate is not interested in negotiating.
One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “Hundreds of years of history are being sold off and the uncertainty is worrying.
“Generations of families have worked these farms since ploughs were pulled by horses.
“There are also thousands of acres of beautiful woodland both inside and outside the estate walls, home of many muntjac and roe deer, owls, badgers and bat colonies, so any work or tree-felling carried out by new owners could have a profound affect on the environment. There’s also the Great Lake and other popular fishing pools on the estate, which now have an uncertain future.
The resident added: “And then there are the people who live in Crown property with families.”
Review
The Crown Estate does not own Patshull Park Hotel, Golf and Country Club, so this is not included in the sales plans.
Head of the rural properties portfolio at The Crown Estate Malcolm Burns said: “We regularly review our portfolio and are considering plans for potential sales in Patshull.
“We have had initial discussions with some of our customers and will continue to work closely with them.”
Eleanor Smith, the MP for Wolverhampton South West, added: “These situations are terrible for residents and create worry and stress.
“Any decisions should consider the impact to the community and the families living there, and the historic and cultural legacy of the area.”
All Crown Estate profit goes back into the Treasury.
