Prince Andrew, Duke of York, has reportedly refused to leave his home, the Royal Lodge, during building work for fear he may not be allowed back in.
The Duke has lived in the 30-room mansion since signing a 75-year lease in 2003, and reportedly spends around £7.5 million renovating and renting it for £250 a week.
Although he divorced his ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York in 1996, the couple still lives there together.
Recently, rumours have circulated that Prince Andrew may be forced to vacate the property by King Charles III as part of plans to scale down the monarchy.
However, earlier this year, The Times alleged that Prince Andrew had “told friends” that he may have to move out of the Royal Lodge by September.
In May, the Daily Mail reported that the King would not force his brother to leave the property, as it could cost the Crown Estate if they had to reimburse him to terminate his lease early.
In addition to these reports, some papers speculated that Prince Andrew’s financial support may be cut.
During the reign of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, he received an annual allowance of around £249,000.
Cutting his allowance would make it difficult for him to afford to continue living at the Lodge, which is estimated to have a value of £30 million if put up for sale on the open market.
The Royal Lodge was previously the home of the Queen Mother until 2002.
It is situated three miles away from Windsor Castle and boasts a swimming pool, 98 acres of land, and is already in need of some repair.
It is thought that the King currently aids Prince Andrew with the smooth running of his daily life, from letting occasional meals be sent to the Lodge from the Windsor Castle kitchens to allowing Castle staff to help him with his garden and household repairs.
Despite this, Prince Andrew is said to be worried about leaving the Royal Lodge during building work, as he fears he may not be allowed to return.
It is unclear what kind of work is being carried out at the property or how long it will take to complete.
While it is widely believed that King Charles III wants to scale down the monarchy, it remains to be seen whether he will ask his brother to vacate the Royal Lodge.
The Duke of York has faced controversy in recent years over his association with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted s** offender who died in prison in 2019.
Prince Andrew was accused of having s** with a teenage girl who was trafficked by Epstein, which he denies.
The Duke stepped back from public duties in November 2019, and it is unclear when or if he will return to royal duties.
