Prince Andrew Faces Renewed Scrutiny Over Royal Lodge Residence and Titles Amid Discussions with King Charles III

Pressure Mounts Over Royal Lodge Occupancy

Prince Andrew, Duke of York, is reportedly engaged in advanced discussions with representatives of King Charles III regarding his continued residency at Royal Lodge, a 30-room mansion located in Windsor Great Park. The Duke has occupied the property since 2003, having secured a 75-year lease for £1 million, which extends until 2078. As part of the agreement, he was also required to invest £7.5 million in refurbishments, completed by 2005.

The maintenance of Royal Lodge is substantial, with annual costs estimated between £4 million and £5 million, alongside security expenses potentially reaching £3 million. Following King Charles III's decision to cut Prince Andrew's annual allowance, the King has reportedly been covering these considerable costs from his private wealth. The property itself is reportedly in a state of disrepair, showing signs of peeling paint, mould, and crumbling stonework, with urgent repairs estimated at £250,000.

While Prince Andrew cannot be easily evicted due to his 'cast iron' lease, Buckingham Palace is reportedly increasing pressure for him to vacate voluntarily. Reports suggest that sticking points in negotiations include the location of a new residence and financial compensation for the funds he has invested in Royal Lodge. Should he agree to surrender the lease, he could be entitled to compensation of approximately £557,595.

Royal Titles and Parliamentary Debate

The renewed scrutiny comes shortly after Prince Andrew announced on October 17, 2025, that he would no longer use his Duke of York title and other honours, including the Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh. This decision, made in discussion with King Charles III and his family, acknowledged that 'continued accusations' distract from the work of the Royal Family. While he has ceased using these titles, he technically retains the dukedom, as its formal removal would require an Act of Parliament. He will continue to be known as 'Prince' due to his birthright.

In the wake of these developments, calls for a parliamentary debate on Prince Andrew's conduct and titles have intensified. Lawmakers, particularly from the Liberal Democrats, are exploring options, including using an opposition day debate, to scrutinize his residency at Royal Lodge and his dukedom. However, the government has so far declined to allocate time for such a debate, citing the Royal Family's preference for parliament to focus on 'important issues.' A debate on the conduct of a royal would be unprecedented in modern parliamentary history.

Context of Ongoing Controversy

This latest pressure on Prince Andrew is set against the backdrop of ongoing controversy surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and allegations made by Virginia Giuffre. In 2022, he settled a civil sexual assault case with Giuffre for an undisclosed sum, while consistently denying any wrongdoing. He was previously stripped of his military titles and royal patronages in 2022 and ceased using his 'His Royal Highness' style. His only declared income is a £20,000 naval pension, raising questions about the funding of his lifestyle and the upkeep of Royal Lodge.