Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are reportedly requesting two residences as they prepare to depart from the Royal Lodge. The 65-year-old prince is said to be in talks to vacate his current 30-room Royal Lodge home voluntarily, amid controversy over the minimal rent he pays for the property in Windsor.
According to reports, Prince Andrew is engaged in discussions with officials from the King’s office but is hesitant to give up his long-standing residence. The key points of contention are said to revolve around the new home’s location and financial compensation for the expenses incurred in renovating the lodge.
In negotiations with the Palace, Prince Andrew has expressed interest in acquiring Frogmore Cottage, the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Meanwhile, Sarah Ferguson, his ex-wife with whom he currently resides, is looking to move into Adelaide Cottage once it becomes vacant when Prince William and Kate Middleton relocate next month.
A source close to the couple mentioned that the arrangements are still uncertain within the Palace walls. Frogmore Cottage is deemed too small for both parties, leading to the potential separation as Adelaide Cottage offers proximity for easy visits between them and their daughters Eugenie and Beatrice.
Buckingham Palace and representatives of Prince Andrew have been approached for comments on the matter, following reports that Prince William is insisting on Prince Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge before Bonfire Night. As preparations are made for Prince William and Princess Kate to settle in Forest Lodge nearby, the future king reportedly desires Prince Andrew to vacate the premises promptly.
Allegedly, Catherine is uncomfortable with the idea of living near Royal Lodge while Prince Andrew remains there, prompting William’s urgency for his exit. The situation is shifting towards directives rather than negotiations with Prince Andrew’s preferences becoming secondary in the decision-making process.
Meanwhile, Members of Parliament are anticipated to debate Prince Andrew’s behavior, his mansion, and the potential revocation of his dukedom. The scheduling of discussions in the House of Commons remains pending, with possibilities for the issue to be raised during opposition days when the government does not control the parliamentary timetable.
The Liberal Democrats have hinted at using one of their opposition days to facilitate parliamentary discussions on Prince Andrew’s conduct. Although Prince Andrew relinquished his Duke of York title recently, formal removal would require legislation passed by Parliament.