The grandeur of Royal Lodge, Prince Andrew's Windsor residence, is being overshadowed by a growing maintenance crisis that has left the 30-room mansion showing alarming signs of decay. An exclusive inspection reveals a property in desperate need of attention, with the Duke of York's home becoming a growing concern for royal officials.
Visible decay mars the royal facade
Walking the grounds of the Grade II listed property reveals a troubling picture. Multiple exterior walls display significant cracking, while chipped and peeling paintwork gives the mansion a neglected appearance. Most concerning of all, patches of black mould have been spotted spreading across various sections of the building, raising serious questions about the property's condition and habitability.
A royal headache for the monarchy
The deteriorating state of Royal Lodge presents a significant problem for the Royal Family. The 98-year property, which Andrew leases from the Crown Estate, requires substantial investment that the Duke appears unable or unwilling to provide. With his annual £249,000 parliamentary allowance ceased and reduced income following his withdrawal from public duties, the funding for essential repairs remains uncertain.
Buckingham Palace's growing concerns
Royal aides have reportedly expressed alarm at the property's declining condition. The situation has become so concerning that palace officials are actively monitoring the deterioration, with some suggesting the Duke may eventually need to vacate the property entirely if the maintenance issues aren't promptly addressed.
A symbol of Andrew's diminished status
The crumbling mansion serves as a powerful metaphor for Prince Andrew's fall from grace. Once a senior working royal with a glittering career, he now resides in a decaying property that reflects his diminished standing within the monarchy. The maintenance crisis adds another layer of complexity to his already controversial position within the Royal Family.
What happens next for Royal Lodge?
The future of the historic property remains uncertain. Options being considered include substantial royal funding for repairs, though this would likely prove controversial with taxpayers. Alternatively, Andrew could be relocated to the more manageable Frogmore Cottage, previously home to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, though this would represent another significant demotion for the Duke.
