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Prince William Plans New Sustainable Village on Somerset Estate

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/0 .. -new-sustainable-village-on-somerset-estate.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 11:07 GMT
      Locale: UNITED KINGDOM

Prince William's Somerset Estate: A Deep Dive into the Plans for a New Village & Sustainable Future

Prince William and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales, are embarking on a significant and ambitious project – the development of a new village on their expansive Somerset estate, Highgrove. While the Prince of Wales inherited the famed Highgrove House from his father, King Charles III, he's now actively shaping the future of the surrounding land with plans that go far beyond simply maintaining the existing farm and gardens. This isn't just about a stately home; it's about building a sustainable community, addressing the housing crisis, and securing the estate’s long-term viability.

The core of the project revolves around building a ‘new village’ on land currently used for agricultural purposes, specifically a 317-acre parcel known as Home Farm. The plans, submitted to South Somerset District Council, detail the construction of 70 new homes, a community hub, and a revitalized farm focused on organic and regenerative agriculture. Critically, the development aims to be carbon neutral, prioritizing eco-friendly building practices and a focus on biodiversity.

Addressing the Housing Need & Sustainable Development

The housing element is a key focus. The proposed 70 homes aren’t designed to be luxury residences. Instead, the mix is intended to cater to a range of needs, including affordable housing for local people. Around 40% of the homes will be designated as ‘local needs’ housing, prioritizing those with a connection to the local area and struggling to find affordable accommodation. This commitment addresses a pressing issue in rural Somerset, where housing costs are often prohibitively high.

The architectural approach is equally important. The design brief emphasizes traditional building techniques using locally sourced materials - primarily stone, timber, and brick. This isn’t a modern, steel-and-glass development; it's intended to blend seamlessly with the existing rural landscape. Designs showcase gabled roofs, classic proportions, and a clear nod to the vernacular architecture of the region. Solar panels will be integrated subtly into the roofs, and all homes will be built to a high energy efficiency standard. Furthermore, the plans include extensive green spaces, creating a parkland feel within the village itself.

Regenerative Farming and a Community Hub

The Prince’s vision extends beyond housing. The existing Home Farm will be transformed into a centre for organic and regenerative farming practices. This is a move firmly aligned with the Prince’s long-held commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, mirroring his father’s decades-long advocacy for organic farming. The aim is to create a working farm that not only produces high-quality food but also enhances the surrounding ecosystem. This includes promoting biodiversity, improving soil health, and reducing carbon emissions. The farm is expected to serve as a model for other agricultural businesses, demonstrating the viability of environmentally friendly practices.

Central to the village’s success is the planned community hub. This will be a multi-purpose building housing a village hall, office space, and potentially a small shop or café. It’s envisioned as a place where residents can gather, connect, and build a strong sense of community. The hub will also serve as a focal point for educational initiatives, promoting sustainable living and agricultural awareness.

King Charles' Legacy & the Future of Highgrove

The project is intrinsically linked to King Charles' legacy at Highgrove. He famously transformed the estate into an organic farm over three decades, demonstrating a dedication to sustainable practices long before it became mainstream. Prince William is building upon this foundation, expanding the scope to encompass a more holistic vision of a thriving, self-sufficient community.

The development isn't without its complexities. Planning permission was initially delayed while ecological surveys were conducted to ensure minimal impact on the local wildlife. Concerns were raised regarding potential traffic increases and the visual impact on the surrounding countryside. However, the Prince’s team has worked closely with local authorities and community groups to address these concerns, incorporating feedback into the revised plans.

Long-Term Vision and Economic Sustainability

The new village isn't just a philanthropic endeavor. It’s also seen as a way to ensure the long-term economic viability of the Highgrove Estate. The income generated from the new homes and the farm will help to fund the upkeep of the estate and support its ongoing commitment to sustainable practices. Furthermore, the project is expected to create new jobs in the local area, both during the construction phase and in the ongoing operation of the farm and community hub.

In conclusion, Prince William's vision for the Highgrove Estate is a bold and ambitious one. It represents a commitment to addressing the housing crisis, promoting sustainable agriculture, and creating a thriving rural community. By blending traditional building techniques with modern eco-friendly technologies, the Prince and Princess of Wales are aiming to create a model for rural development that can be replicated elsewhere, demonstrating a pathway towards a more sustainable future. The success of this project will not only secure the legacy of Highgrove but also contribute to a wider movement towards environmentally responsible and community-focused development.