Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson have reportedly agreed to vacate Royal Lodge, but only if they receive two alternative properties in return. The couple are said to have requested Frogmore Cottage, formerly home to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Adelaide Cottage, recently vacated by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
The demand comes amid mounting pressure on Andrew to leave the 30-room Grade II listed mansion on the Windsor Estate, where he has effectively lived rent-free for 22 years under a 'peppercorn deal'. King Charles has already offered Frogmore Cottage, which Andrew previously turned down, but the renewed backlash has forced the issue.
According to a friend, Andrew is realistic about his situation and knows his time at Royal Lodge is up. However, the move would see the couple part ways for the first time in nearly 20 years, as they have lived together at the property since 2008 despite their 1996 divorce. The friend added that they need a break from one another after immense strain.
Neither Frogmore nor Adelaide would require renovation or additional security costs, as both lie within Windsor Castle's security perimeter. Discussions are ongoing about the rent Andrew and Ferguson would be charged, and it remains unclear what would happen to Royal Lodge, though a new tenant is expected to fund renovations.
The development comes as Andrew may face parliamentary criticism over his lifestyle and ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The Liberal Democrats have indicated they could use an opposition day to allow MPs to discuss his behaviour, though the government has declined to table a motion.
