Prince William visited Princetown on Dartmoor to launch a new regeneration fund aimed at supporting the isolated community. The Prince of Wales has pledged £250,000, which will be allocated as grants for projects focused on social, economic, and environmental benefits for the town and its residents. This initiative is part of a larger £1.5 million package announced earlier this year, which repurposes rent from the former Dartmoor Prison for local reinvestment.
The closure of Dartmoor Prison, which had been generating an annual rental income of £1.5 million for the Duchy of Cornwall, led to a significant economic downturn in Princetown. High levels of radiation in prisoner accommodation necessitated its closure in 2024, resulting in job losses and a negative impact on local businesses. The Duchy of Cornwall had entered into a 25-year lease agreement with the Ministry of Justice for the former prison in 2022.
Upon learning of the situation and the Duchy's rental income from the prison, Prince William expressed a strong desire for the funds to be invested locally. During his visit, he engaged with local businesses and residents, trying his hand at a manual printing exercise using natural inks and colors from the Moor. He also visited the newly opened Gather & Moor visitor center and cafe, where local artists showcase their work.
Support for Local Initiatives
Prince William met with local leaders, including Nora Corkery, CEO of Devon Communities Together, and Pete Vallance, the Duchy's incoming Princetown Regeneration Manager, to discuss the area's regeneration. He inquired about the community's ambitions for the fund and emphasized the need to support local initiatives, stating, "It's not about me coming telling you what to do, you tell me what you want to do."
The Prince also visited the Princetown Youth Club, which he had previously supported after noticing its disrepair during a private visit. The Duchy has since contributed £50,000 to renovate the building, an example of the projects the new fund will support. He spoke with local children in the renovated club, asking if it was better now that the roof was fixed. The Duchy's investment in the youth club is indicative of the type of projects the £1.5 million regeneration package aims to facilitate.
Locals shared their positive outlook on the town's evolving landscape, with one resident noting, "I think Princetown is busy as ever now, things change... People want to be here." Business owners also expressed optimism, with Nikki, a local business owner, stating, "I'm feeling really positive now about the town, it feels like we're shouting about what's here now. I think what you're doing is amazing."
Prince William also met alpacas Treacle and Noodle during his visit to the town, which dates back to the 1700s and was historically named after the then Prince of Wales. The visit coincided with Prince Harry's 42nd birthday, which he celebrated with his family in California.