HMP Dartmoor, one of Britain’s most historic prisons, is currently empty but still generating significant revenue for Prince William’s Duchy of Cornwall. Recent reports reveal that the prison pays Prince William’s Duchy £1.5 million annually for the lease of the facility, even though it’s uninhabitable due to dangerous radon gas levels. This situation has raised eyebrows about the financial arrangements and the condition of the prison.
Prison Pays Prince William’s Duchy £1.5m a Year
The prison, built in 1809 and owned by Prince William’s Duchy of Cornwall, was evacuated after dangerously high levels of radon gas were discovered. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer, if exposure levels are too high. Regular monitoring showed that radon levels in certain parts of the prison exceeded safe limits, prompting authorities to relocate inmates from these affected areas.
While efforts are ongoing to address the radon issue, parts of the facility remain unsafe, and inmates cannot return until the problem is resolved.
Financial Arrangements
Despite being empty, the prison pays Prince William’s Duchy £1.5m a year under a 25-year lease agreement worth a total of £37 million. The MoJ, which is responsible for maintaining the prison, also bears the costs of repairs and upkeep. Critics argue that this deal leaves taxpayers footing the bill while the Duchy continues to receive substantial rent payments.
Questions have been raised about the fairness of this arrangement, as the Duchy, as the landlord, has limited obligations to ensure the property is suitable for its intended use.
The Radon Problem
Radon gas is a serious health risk, and dealing with it has proven challenging at HMP Dartmoor. To address the issue:
- Monitoring: The MoJ regularly monitors radon levels to track any changes.
- Restricted Access: Areas with high radon levels have been closed off to protect both staff and inmates.
- Improved Ventilation: Efforts have been made to enhance ventilation in affected areas, reducing radon concentrations.
Despite these steps, the prison remains unsafe, and the situation has drawn attention from health and safety regulators.
Legal and Safety Concerns
The radon issue has sparked significant concern among former inmates and staff. Over 300 prisoners and ex-prisoners are seeking legal advice over potential health risks caused by prolonged exposure to high radon levels. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is also investigating whether the prison complied with regulations designed to protect individuals from hazardous exposure.
Historical Significance and Future of HMP Dartmoor
HMP Dartmoor has a rich history. Opened in 1809, it was initially used to house prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and has since served various roles in Britain’s prison system. Over the years, it has become an iconic but aging facility, struggling to meet modern safety and operational standards.
Now, its future remains uncertain. While discussions continue about necessary repairs, critics question whether the costs of maintaining such an old building are justified.
Scrutiny Over Duchy Payments
The revelation that the prison pays Prince William’s Duchy £1.5m a year has amplified debates about the relationship between royal estates and public assets. Some argue that the Duchy should take greater responsibility for the condition of its properties, especially when public funds are involved. Others believe the current arrangement benefits the Duchy disproportionately at taxpayers’ expense.
Conclusion
The situation at HMP Dartmoor raises critical questions about public spending, royal finances, and prison management. As efforts to address the radon issue continue, the spotlight remains on the financial arrangements that allow the prison to pay Prince William’s Duchy £1.5m a year, even while it sits empty. Resolving this matter will require balancing public safety, fiscal responsibility, and the unique complexities of managing historic royal properties.
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