Fears for agricultural tenants if Lake Vyrnwy sold

Fears over the future of agricultural tenants on the Lake Vyrnwy estate have been raised by farming officials in Powys.

The Montgomeryshire branch of the Farmers Union of Wales is concerned the sale of the estate could lead to major changes in tenancies for farmers.

Alwyn Watkins, FUW county chairman, said a new owner of the estate could take more of a firm stand to its management approach.

Severn Trent plans to sell the 23,000-acre estate, excluding the reservoir, on a 125-year lease for £11m.

He said: "The majority of tenants are on Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 Tenancies and have been assured of their situation in respect of their tenancies, but a new owner of the estate would probably take a more robust approach to its management in the future.

"Moves may be made to introduce changes to clauses in their agreements for example the responsibility for repair and the importance of seeking advice at rent reviews. This could mean a major change for the local community in Llanwddyn and for the farmers who farm the land on the estate."

It comes after a special meeting, which was held this week, raised fears about the estate's future.

County councillor Simon Baynes said he was very disappointed that Severn Trent had not attended

Neil Bale, of The Lake Vyrnwy Marketing Association, said the businesses around the lake would want to work with the new leaseowner over rents and maintenance of the buildings.