Prince Andrew has found enough money to pay for the upkeep and security of Royal Lodge.
Andrew, the Duke of York, has insisted on staying in the mansion despite stepping down from official duties nearly five years ago.
The King has been funding private guards at the mansion since Andrew’s armed cops – costing £3million a year – were removed in 2022 amid the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
Now, it has been revealed that Prince Andrew’s money has been approved by Sir Michael Stevens, the keeper of the privy purse, the Times reports.
Charles had previously encouraged Andrew to move into Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate, which is the former home of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before their move to California.
Prince Andrew has ‘found enough money’ to pay for the £30million Royal Lodge after King Charles withdrew financial support earlier this year
Andrew has insisted on staying in Royal Lodge (pictured) despite stepping down from official duties nearly five years ago
Royal Lodge in Windsor is surrounded by stunning grounds and scenery
The cottage comes with being within the existing security cordon of the royal Windsor estate and was refurbished by Harry and Meghan.
Andrew was reluctant to leave the Royal Lodge, having signed a 75-year lease with the Crown Estate when he moved in in 2003 on condition of making a £1million down payment and paying £260,000-a-year in rent.
There was also an added complication of much-needed repairs to the buildings on the property, some of which have fallen into disrepair and the bill for renovations already rising to £7million.
Charles had previously been ‘letting his feelings’ towards Andrew be known by getting rid of the security team guarding his brother’s home, it was also claimed.
The ten-strong team of security guards, who were being funded by Charles, were told they will not be required from the autumn – prompting speculation the duke will be forced to move.
It was also claimed Charles ‘wants to rent out Windsor Royal Lodge for £1million a year’ but Andrew will have to move out of the mansion first.
Andrew rejected the opportunity to move to nearby Frogmore Cottage (pictured)
Royal Lodge (pictured) was once known as King’s Lodge but its name was changed by the Duke of Cumberland when he became King George IV in 1820
Prince Andrew had previously been refusing to leave the mansion to the King’s frustration
