The Duke of York and his former wife Sarah Ferguson are facing mounting pressure over their continued occupation of the magnificent Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, despite growing financial concerns and royal family tensions.
The £30 Million Windsor Residence
Prince Andrew currently resides in the 30-room mansion alongside his ex-wife, the Duchess of York, in what many observers describe as an unusual living arrangement. The sprawling property, valued at approximately £30 million, has been Andrew's home since 2004 under a 75-year lease agreement with the Crown Estate.
Financial Pressures Mount
Recent reports indicate the King's office has been urging his younger brother to downsize to the more modest Frogmore Cottage, previously home to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. This suggestion comes amid concerns about the substantial maintenance costs of Royal Lodge, estimated at around £400,000 annually for essential repairs and upkeep.
A Royal Standoff
Despite the financial realities, both Andrew and Fergie appear determined to remain in their current residence. Sources close to the couple suggest they're prepared to "dig their heels in" and resist any pressure to relocate. The Duke has reportedly invested considerable personal funds into the property's maintenance, strengthening his resolve to stay.
The Security Question
Adding complexity to the situation is the matter of security costs. While taxpayers no longer fund Andrew's security detail following his withdrawal from royal duties, the couple still maintains some form of protection, the funding source for which remains unclear.
What Comes Next?
With the King reportedly unwilling to directly fund the property's extensive maintenance needs, a resolution seems increasingly urgent. The standoff represents yet another challenge for the slimmed-down monarchy as it navigates financial pressures and public scrutiny in the modern era.
