Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has reportedly vacated his long-term residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor and moved to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, according to sources close to the royal family. This relocation comes amid ongoing scrutiny over his association with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, with new allegations emerging in recently released documents.
Royal Relocation to Norfolk
Sources indicate that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as he is formally known, has temporarily taken up residence on the Sandringham Estate while his permanent property undergoes renovations. The move follows previous announcements that he would leave Royal Lodge after revelations concerning his ties to Epstein and the subsequent stripping of his royal titles and military affiliations.
It is expected that he will eventually settle at Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate, establishing Norfolk as his new permanent base. This shift marks a significant change from his previous home in Windsor, reflecting the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal.
Prince Edward's Public Comments
In a notable development, Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, has broken his silence regarding the controversy surrounding his brother. While details of his comments remain limited, his decision to address the matter publicly underscores the gravity of the situation for the royal family.
Edward's intervention comes at a time when the monarchy faces renewed pressure over Andrew's associations, highlighting the broader implications for royal reputation and public trust.
Police Review of New Allegations
Thames Valley Police are currently reviewing new claims that have surfaced in the wake of the Epstein document release. These allegations involve a young woman who was allegedly sent for a sexual encounter with Prince Andrew in the UK in 2010.
The police force has confirmed it is assessing the information to determine whether further investigation is warranted. This review adds another layer to the legal and public relations challenges facing the Duke of York, as authorities scrutinise the fresh details from the Epstein files.
Context of the Epstein Controversy
The move to Sandringham follows years of controversy stemming from Andrew's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, including in a 2019 BBC interview that was widely criticised.
The recent release of court documents related to Epstein has reignited public and media interest, prompting renewed calls for accountability and transparency. Andrew's relocation is seen by many observers as part of a broader effort to distance the royal family from the scandal, though the ongoing police review suggests the matter is far from resolved.
As the situation develops, the royal family continues to navigate the delicate balance between personal privacy and public expectation, with Andrew's future role and residence remaining under close watch.
