The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, has been met with unyielding pressure to downsize his lavish living arrangements at Royal Lodge, but has staunchly resisted, finding the proposed alternative "insulting," according to sources close to the matter.
King Charles III, determined to actualize his vision of a "leaner monarchy," has been striving to convince Andrew to abandon his 30-room home, a residence he still holds a 55-year lease on.
"Charles envisions Andrew transitioning to the comparatively modest Frogmore Cottage," a court insider noted, referencing the residence once inhabited by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. "However, Andrew has made it clear to his inner circle that he's not vacating his current residence."
The Duke of York, who found himself in hot water and was ejected from his Buckingham Palace office last year, may not have a say in the matter, with King Charles III advising him to seek alternative accommodations.
Prince Andrew's royal and military honors were rescinded in January 2022, following a U.S. judge's decision to proceed with a sexual assault lawsuit against the prince. While a settlement was ultimately reached with his accuser, Virginia Giuffre, Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing and reportedly contemplated initiating a legal process to compel Giuffre to retract her allegations.
Despite the ensuing scandal, Charles has not entirely severed ties with his brother. However, he remains firm on his stance. Insiders have told RadarOnline.com exclusively that a significant overhaul within the palace is on the horizon, with changes that could surpass anything seen in the monarchy over the past seven decades.
Sarah Ferguson, opting to stay neutral, has stated that the relocation matter lies solely between the Duke and the King.
In recent weeks, Andrew has made public appearances, seen driving his Range Rover within the precincts of Windsor Castle and indulging in horse riding.
An anonymous source provided an update on the Royal Lodge: "Andrew's financial support has been significantly curtailed by Charles, making it increasingly challenging for him to maintain his residence. The expansive grounds have already begun to show signs of neglect."
