The Duke of York and his former wife Sarah Ferguson are facing a perfect storm of financial pressures as their Grade II listed Windsor mansion, Royal Lodge, requires urgent repairs estimated at a staggering £5 million.
The Crumbling Royal Residence
Their 30-room home, which Prince Andrew leases under a 75-year agreement with the Crown Estate, is showing significant signs of wear and tear. The sprawling property demands extensive renovations that neither the Duke nor the Duchess appear financially equipped to handle.
Insiders reveal the couple are genuinely worried about their ability to maintain the property to the required standards. "They're in a real pickle," a source close to the situation disclosed. "The house needs serious work, and they simply don't have the funds."
Shrinking Royal Income
Prince Andrew's financial situation has deteriorated significantly since stepping back from royal duties in 2019 following the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. The Queen's former £249,000 annual subsidy has been eliminated, leaving the Duke to cover all expenses from his naval pension and private means.
Sarah Ferguson's income streams have also faced challenges. While she maintains various business ventures and writing projects, these are unlikely to cover the astronomical costs of maintaining their historic home.
A Royal Dilemma
The situation presents a delicate problem for the Royal Family. While the Crown Estate technically owns the property, the responsibility for maintenance falls squarely on the tenants - in this case, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson.
Royal commentators suggest this could force difficult decisions about the couple's living arrangements. "There's serious talk about whether they might need to downsize," an insider revealed. "The financial reality is hitting hard."
What Comes Next?
The future of Royal Lodge remains uncertain. Options being considered include:
- Negotiating a new financial arrangement with the Crown Estate
- Seeking private funding for the necessary repairs
- Potentially relocating to a more manageable property
- Exploring alternative revenue streams to cover costs
As the royal couple navigates this challenging period, their situation highlights the complex financial realities facing modern royals who step back from official duties while maintaining expensive lifestyles and properties.
