The monarch is said to be finalising plans to move his brother out of Windsor as pressure mounts over his long-held lease
King Charles III has reportedly taken firm steps to resolve one of the royal family’s most persistent issues — Prince Andrew’s continued occupation of Royal Lodge in Windsor.
According to palace insiders, the King is engaged in ongoing negotiations with his younger brother to reach an agreement that would see him vacate the 30-room estate. The talks are described as “sensitive but necessary,” as Buckingham Palace faces mounting public scrutiny over Andrew’s finances and past associations.
Efforts to persuade Andrew to leave voluntarily have intensified in recent weeks, following the quiet removal of his royal banner from its longtime place inside St George’s Chapel. The Duke of York and senior palace officials are understood to have held a private meeting to discuss his future at the property, which he has occupied rent-free for more than two decades.
Andrew has previously resisted calls to move, arguing that his long-term lease — believed to have around fifty years remaining — protects his right to stay. However, sources now suggest he is beginning to accept that relocation may be unavoidable.
Financial matters remain a key obstacle. Reports indicate that negotiations are ongoing over reimbursement for the millions Andrew invested in the property through his Crown Estate lease, as well as identifying suitable new accommodation for him.
The future of his daughters, the Duke’s daughters, was also reportedly raised in the discussions. Palace aides are said to be mindful of ensuring stability for them as plans for Andrew’s relocation advance.
Under the terms of his lease, Andrew pays a symbolic “peppercorn rent” of just £1 a year — if requested — and contributed £7.5 million towards renovations completed in 2005.
The King’s push to settle the matter reflects his broader goal of modernising the monarchy and reducing its lingering controversies, signalling that even family ties will not stand in the way of accountability and change.
