King Charles has reportedly made a decision about who will move into Royal Lodge following Prince Andrew’s departure, as the disgraced Duke of York faces increasing pressure to vacate the Windsor estate.
Although Andrew is determined to keep the property he shared with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson for more than 20 years, his days at the lodge appear to be numbered.
The disgraced royal, who signed a 75-year lease on Royal Lodge more than two decades ago, resisted efforts to move to a smaller property such as Frogmore Cottage.
To hasten Andrew’s departure, King Charles has already withdrawn his security forces and is reportedly stepping up his efforts to persuade him to leave the estate.
King Charles has reportedly already found a successor for Andrew at the Royal Lodge, a move that could be particularly painful for the Duke of York.
Prince Edward, the youngest brother of King Charles, and his wife Sophie, Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, are reportedly set to move into the property.
This decision is intended to be a reward for her increased royal duties and public service, particularly in a difficult year for the royal family.
Since both King Charles and Princess Kate are undergoing cancer treatment, Prince Edward and Sophie have taken on significantly more responsibilities and are stepping in for the high-ranking royals.
Their commitment and service did not go unnoticed by the king.
Royal expert Richard Kay said: “Charles has toyed with the idea of offering the royal box to his youngest brother, Prince Edward.”
He added: “The pair have not always seen eye to eye, but the King has been extremely impressed by the way Edward and his wife Sophie have increased their workload since being created Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.”
Sophie in particular is very popular with audiences and is known for her close relationship with the Princess of Wales, which is partly due to their shared experience of not being born into nobility.
The move came amid reports that Prince Andrew had turned down an offer to move to Frogmore Cottage, a property formerly occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Instead, Andrew seems to prefer the more secluded Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate.