The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, is facing a significant delay in his mandated move from the grand Royal Lodge in Windsor, with reports now suggesting he may not relocate until February of next year.
A Stalled Departure from Royal Lodge
The former prince was ordered to leave his 30-room Windsor mansion, Royal Lodge, following the stripping of his military affiliations and royal patronages last month. This decisive action came in the wake of his association with the convicted paedophile financier, Jeffrey Epstein.
It was subsequently revealed that Andrew had been paying little to no rent on the luxurious property for years. The King's plan was for his brother to downsize to a much smaller property on the private Sandringham estate in Norfolk, a move he is expected to make without his former wife, Sarah Ferguson.
Christmas at Royal Lodge Amidst Family Distance
Initial reports indicated the relocation would occur shortly after the New Year, following the Royal Family's traditional Christmas gathering at Sandringham. However, the transition has been hampered by logistical challenges associated with downsizing from such a substantial home.
According to sources cited by The Sun, the move is now unlikely to happen before February. This confirmed delay means Andrew will definitively spend one final Christmas at Royal Lodge. He is not believed to have received an invitation to join the rest of the Firm at Sandringham for the festive season, a situation that also occurred last year.
Relief for the Royal Family
Insiders suggest the distance between Andrew and the main royal party at Christmas is a welcome relief for the family. Having the Duke at Sandringham during a period when most senior royals are in residence was described by sources as a "suboptimal" and "quite awkward" prospect.
This further postponement extends a period of transition for the Duke, who is adjusting to a dramatically reduced public role and a more modest lifestyle away from the opulence of his long-time Windsor home.
