Prince Andrew may potentially receive a payment directly from King Charles in order to vacate the Royal Lodge where he currently resides. The ex-Duke of York, who has denied any misconduct allegations, is in discussions with Buckingham Palace about voluntarily leaving the luxurious 30-room mansion on the Windsor Estate. Despite having a secure 50-year lease on the property, Andrew could be entitled to a reimbursement from the Crown Estate, the property manager, up to £500,000 if he chooses to depart.
Recently stripped of his royal titles due to revelations of prolonged contact with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, Prince Andrew is under pressure to move out voluntarily. However, his lease agreement, obtained in 2003 from the Crown Estate for a duration of 75 years, guarantees a substantial refund if he decides to leave.
Reportedly investing £1 million for the tenancy and an additional £7.5 million for mansion repairs, Andrew could potentially receive a refund of £557,000 if he vacates the property before next June. The refund amount decreases annually, with no refund owed by 2028 if he chooses to depart.
Any payment made to Andrew upon his departure from the Royal Lodge would need to be reimbursed to the Crown Estate, which funds the Treasury. There are speculations that King Charles might personally reimburse his brother or arrange repayment to the Crown Estate.
A public payout could raise questions about royal finances and create a delicate situation. The future living arrangements of Andrew and possibly his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, with whom he resides, are also uncertain. While offered to move into Frogmore Cottage, the former home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Andrew prefers to stay near London, especially in or around Windsor, to be close to his daughters.
Princess Beatrice and Eugenie reside in homes at St James’ Palace and Kensington Palace respectively, and Andrew aims to secure their futures. King Charles reportedly supports this objective.
