Prince William’s Duchy Approves Housing Near Thomas Hardy Home Amid Heritage Criticism

Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey and president of the Thomas Hardy Society, has strongly criticized the Duchy of Cornwall, managed by Prince William, for plans to build 107 homes near Thomas Hardy's historic former home, Max Gate, in Dorset. Despite the Dorset council's approval, Fellowes and the society argue that the development threatens a culturally significant rural landscape that inspired Hardy’s renowned works such as Tess of the d’Urbervilles and The Mayor of Casterbridge. Fellowes questioned the council's and developers' conscience and appreciation of local history, emphasizing that alternative locations could address housing shortages without harming historic sites. The society has vowed to challenge the decision and urged the Duchy to reconsider, describing the land as "sacred" to Hardy's legacy. This dispute highlights broader tensions between heritage preservation and housing development, particularly given the Duchy's extensive landholdings in the area, including King Charles's nearby Poundbury village. The controversy also raises questions about the Duchy's special tax status and its role in regional development under Prince William's management since inheriting the estate in 2022.