Duke plans to cut size of allotments to build flats

The Duke of Northumberland wants to redevelop London allotments into 80 homes in seven blocks.

Northumberland Estates has applied to reduce the 38 plots at Isleworth Allotment Gardens in size.

The family need the rental income from the flats to fund repairs at Syon House, the Grade I listed home managed by the Duke’s son, Earl Percy.

The renovation costs are around £20million. Stephen Hurton, of the Park Road Allotments Association, said: “Instead of full-sized plots we will have half-plots or quarter-plots.”

Northumberland Estates said the application includes “seeks to address the shortage of affordable housing”.