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Marsh Farm Estate Warned of Heightened Flood Risk

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/1 .. farm-estate-warned-of-heightened-flood-risk.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 23:47 GMT
      Locale: UNITED KINGDOM

Wokingham, Berkshire - January 19th, 2026 - The Marsh Farm estate, formerly owned by Prince Andrew and currently facing scrutiny over its management and environmental impact, is being warned of a heightened flood risk. Wokingham Borough Council has issued a formal advisory to residents, urging them to prepare for potential flooding due to increased rainfall and existing drainage challenges. This development adds another layer of complexity to the estate's already turbulent history.

The council's letter, distributed to residents, advises proactive measures such as checking drainage systems, reviewing flood risk assessments, and contacting the council directly for further guidance. The warning explicitly states that "increased rainfall and existing drainage issues could cause a build-up of water," highlighting a genuine and present danger to the estate and its inhabitants. The timing of the warning, against a backdrop of increasingly severe weather events across the United Kingdom, underscores the growing threat posed by climate change and extreme weather.

Marsh Farm estate is a substantial property, encompassing over 600 acres of farmland, woodland, and lakes, located near Wokingham, Berkshire. The estate's history is intertwined with that of Prince Andrew, who purchased it in 2009 for a significant GBP17.4 million. Following his stepping down from royal duties amidst controversy, the Duke of York relinquished ownership, leaving the estate with a complex ownership structure involving multiple companies and trusts. This intricate ownership has further fueled public and environmental interest in its operations.

Beyond the ownership drama, the estate has drawn criticism from environmental campaigners who have voiced concerns regarding its management practices and their potential impact on local wildlife. These concerns predate the current flood risk warning, suggesting a broader pattern of environmental management issues contributing to the estate's vulnerabilities. While the current owners claim to be taking steps to mitigate these risks, the council's advisory serves as a stark reminder of the challenges involved in responsibly managing such a large and ecologically sensitive property.

"We are aware of the council's communication and are taking steps to address the concerns raised. We have been working proactively to manage the estate responsibly," stated a spokesperson for the Marsh Farm estate when questioned about the situation. However, the council's warning suggests that these proactive measures may not be sufficient to entirely alleviate the risk.

The broader context of increased flooding risks across the UK is crucial in understanding the severity of the council's advisory. Climate scientists consistently predict more frequent and intense rainfall events due to global warming, placing greater strain on existing infrastructure and increasing the vulnerability of communities to flooding. The Marsh Farm estate, with its extensive network of lakes and existing drainage issues, is particularly susceptible to these increased risks. The underlying topography of the land, combined with the potential for heavy rainfall, creates a scenario where localized flooding is a realistic and growing concern.

The council's advice to residents is particularly pertinent given the estate's unique circumstances. Understanding individual flood risk assessments, maintaining drainage, and being prepared for potential evacuations are essential steps for safeguarding residents and property. The situation highlights the broader need for improved flood defense infrastructure and more sustainable land management practices across the UK, especially in areas like Berkshire that are increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change. The Marsh Farm estate, once a symbol of royal ownership, now stands as a case study in the challenges of environmental responsibility and the increasing threats posed by a changing climate.