According to a report by Swale Borough Council, officers have recommended councillors approve the scheme, known as South East Faversham, which would be rolled out over 20 years on 340 acres of farmland. The development would include housing, shops, a primary school, sports pitches, a healthcare centre, and upgrades to major roads in and around Faversham. ' It adds that the harm to the area is significant but would not outweigh the benefits.
The Duchy of Cornwall is a property portfolio covering nearly 130,000 acres over 20 counties in the UK, set up in 1337 to provide an income for the heir to the throne. Prince William, as the current steward, receives an annual income of more than £20 million from its profits, which he uses to support his family, household staff, and his official and charitable work. He voluntarily pays income tax on this revenue, despite the estate's Crown exemption from such taxes.
The plans have been met with scorn by locals, with hundreds of letters registering official objections and residents marching in protest. The development would build over Faversham Town FC's training ground, though not its current 3G first team astroturf pitch, and would see the existing Faversham Cricket Club pitch bulldozed over. If approved, full planning permission will be given for phase one, which includes up to 261 homes, a water recycling centre, 29 commercial units, and an access road to the A2, while outline permission will be granted for the remainder, subject to future applications as conditions are met.
The development has been in the works for years, dating back to when King Charles III was head of the Duchy as then-Prince of Wales.