MS weighs into farm sale controversy

Montgomeryshire MS Russell George has raised concerns over the sale of two farms in Leighton near Welshpool by Powys County Council.

The decision, approved in principle on September 19, 2023, during a "behind-closed-doors session," has prompted Mr. George to request an investigation by Audit Wales into the process.

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The decision to sell the two properties has sparked controversy due to allegations of lack of transparency and fairness. According to Mr. George, the current tenant of these farms had not been informed of the prospective sale, nor had they been given the opportunity to purchase the property, farm buildings, and land they currently rent.

In response to the situation, Mr. George expressed his concerns about the decision-making process within Powys County Council. He cited worries about the potential failure to provide the best value for money and questioned whether the council's actions aligned with their stated principles of openness, inclusivity, integrity, and accountability.

"I am concerned that Powys County Council may not have provided the best value for money in a decision they have recently taken and were also at odds with their principles of openness, inclusivity, integrity, and accountability," Mr. George stated.

Furthermore, the MS highlighted that this issue extends beyond the two farms currently under scrutiny. "I understand that there are other worried tenant farmers who are concerned that their farms could be up for sale next without their knowledge," Mr. George added.

One of the main points of contention is the confidential nature of the decision. The Cabinet at Powys County Council made the business decision behind closed doors, preventing public scrutiny. Mr. George voiced his concern over this, emphasizing that the lack of transparency may have led to decisions made without all the necessary information.

"I am concerned that the local authority did not offer the sale of the two farms on the open market or provide an opportunity for the current sitting tenant to purchase the land and buildings," Mr. George continued.

To address these concerns, Mr. George has requested an investigation by Audit Wales. He hopes that the investigation will shed light on whether Powys County Council adhered to its own policies of openness, inclusivity, integrity, and accountability during the decision-making process. Additionally, Mr. George seeks clarification on whether taxpayers obtained the best value for their money concerning the confidential session's outcome.

The case highlights the importance of transparency and fairness in local government decisions that can significantly impact individuals and communities. The investigation by Audit Wales will determine if proper procedures were followed and if corrective actions are needed to ensure the best interests of all parties involved.

Powys County Council has yet to respond to Mr. George's concerns, but this issue is likely to generate significant public interest as the investigation unfolds.