Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is faced with the task of securing funding for essential repairs to his long-standing home, the Royal Lodge, situated in Windsor Great Park. With a deadline set for 2024’s end, Andrew is required to show that he can manage the financing of around $2.6 million in renovations, or risk expulsion from the historical estate.
Valued at roughly $37 million, the extensive estate has been Andrew’s residence since 2003, as part of a 75-year lease with the Crown Estate. Nevertheless, the upkeep of the 30-room mansion has been expensive, especially after King Charles III ceased financial backing. The cessation of the yearly $3.8 million funding previously allocated for Andrew’s security costs has put the Duke in a difficult situation. Consequently, Andrew has opted for cheaper security measures, hoping this would enable him to stay at the Royal Lodge.
Andrew’s financial constraints at the property have led to speculation about his future accommodation. King Charles has put forth Frogmore Cottage as a potential substitute. The cottage, formerly resided in by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, is a smaller and more affordable option to the Royal Lodge, albeit with high maintenance costs. However, Andrew has reportedly declined the offer multiple times, as the cottage is considerably smaller than his current dwelling.
Renovation work has started, with Andrew reportedly spending over $250,000 on temporary roof repairs. Yet, this work has been deemed insufficient. A royal insider reports that the Crown Estate is seeking assurance that Andrew can undertake a complete renovation instead of just minor repairs.
Sources indicate that King Charles’s patience is thinning. Andrew is at a crucial juncture as he needs to prove his capability to finance the comprehensive repairs; otherwise, the Crown Estate may start contemplating his exit from the Royal Lodge.
If Andrew is unable to amass the needed funds, the Crown Estate may repurpose the Royal Lodge for commercial use or as a dwelling for other members of the royal family. As he faces this critical deadline, the Duke’s future in Windsor Great Park remains up in the air.