Attempts to remove Prince Andrew from Royal Lodge are deemed futile by legal experts, as his long-term lease on the property extends until 2078. Despite allegedly paying minimal rent for over two decades, the prince holds a secure leasehold that makes eviction nearly impossible, according to legal professionals. The mounting calls for Andrew’s eviction, including from an MP who labeled him an “embarrassment,” face a significant legal hurdle due to the lease agreement he secured in 2003 for £1 million.
Property lawyer Mike Hansom emphasized that any eviction attempt would be impractical, as Andrew’s lease grants him the right to reside in the property until 2078, barring a breach of lease terms. A recent YouGov poll indicating that 80% of Britons support stripping Andrew of his Duke of York title has further intensified the pressure on him, despite his decision to cease using the title voluntarily.
Experts suggest that evicting Andrew from the Berkshire estate would entail a protracted process, given the terms of his lease agreement and the absence of break clauses. The Royal Lodge’s proximity to Forest Lodge, where the Prince and Princess of Wales plan to establish their new residence, adds a layer of complexity to the situation. Prince William’s reported reluctance to have his uncle living nearby underscores the potential tensions within the royal family as they navigate significant changes in the monarchy.
