Quote Andy Gilder="Andy Gilder"Effectively?
So if the RFL wanted to, they could sell the land to Mowlem who could then build a housing estate on it without the freeholder having any say in the matter?'"
You need to break down your second paragraph to understand my point.
The RFL could sell the land to Mowlem? They could sell a leasehold interest in the land.
Who could build a housing estate on it? Potentially, yes
Without the freeholder having any say in the matter? No.
Does any of the above mean the RFL don't own Odsal? No, they do. They own the leasehold. The can sell the leasehold.
Ownership doesn't always entitle someone to do as they wish. I am perfectly entitled to own a knife. I am restricted as to when and where I can carry it and am restricted as to what or who I can stick it in. I still own it.
Look no further than Headingley. Leeds CF&A Ltd own it, freehold and all but i suspect there are restrictive covenants in place as to what the land can be used for. restrictions on usage do not mean you do not own it.