By Claire Duffin
King Charles is reportedly making his feelings known towards Prince Andrew by removing the security team guarding his brother’s £30million home. The Duke of York is facing pressure from His Majesty to move out of Royal Lodge in Windsor and into a more modest property to save money.
Despite the King’s efforts, Prince Andrew has refused to leave the 19th-century, Grade II-listed building, which boasts 30 rooms, a pool, and 90 acres of land. The recent decision to dismiss the security guards funded by Charles has sparked speculation that the duke may be compelled to relocate.
Former BBC royal reporter Michael Cole described the move as “radical” and predicted that Andrew would be “very, very unhappy.” The King has been pushing for his brother to move to Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan, but legal challenges may hinder any eviction attempts due to Andrew’s long-term lease agreement.
As the Royal Family prepares to gather at the Balmoral estate in Scotland, tensions may rise as Andrew and his daughters potentially join the gathering. The 64-year-old prince stepped back from royal duties in 2020 following controversy surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Charles has been funding his brother’s security after armed police were withdrawn, but he is now reluctant to continue paying for round-the-clock protection. With mounting upkeep costs and necessary repairs at Royal Lodge, Charles believes Andrew needs to downsize. Financial uncertainties surrounding Andrew’s finances persist, including a reported settlement with Virginia Giuffre and debts on a Swiss chalet.
Should Prince Andrew vacate Royal Lodge, the property may be leased to a new tenant rather than housing other royals. Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the matter.