The Duke of York faces a major life shift as King Charles plans to end funding for his security.
Prince Andrew was recently spotted enjoying a morning horseback ride in Windsor, engaging in friendly chats with local dog walkers. The outing comes as the Duke of York, 64, faces significant changes to his lifestyle, with reports suggesting that King Charles will soon cease covering the costs of his privately-funded security.
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2019, Prince Andrew lost his publicly-funded security. Following this, the late Queen privately funded his protection until her passing in 2022. Now, King Charles is reportedly taking steps to withdraw the funding for the Duke's ten-member security team, a decision expected to take effect in November.
The move is part of a broader shift in royal dynamics, with the King seemingly encouraging his brother to vacate his current residence at Royal Lodge. The £30 million estate, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle, has been Andrew's home since 2003, when he signed a 75-year lease with the Crown Estate, involving a £1 million payment and an annual rent of £260,000. The long-term nature of this agreement complicates any potential plans for relocation.
Sources indicate that King Charles would prefer Andrew to move to Frogmore Cottage, a more modest five-bedroom residence on the Windsor estate. The cottage was previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle before they departed the UK. Transitioning from the spacious Royal Lodge to Frogmore Cottage would represent a considerable downsizing for the Duke.
Amid these anticipated changes, Prince Andrew has appeared in good spirits, continuing his routine activities. However, the potential loss of his security team and a move to a smaller residence mark a significant shift in his life as King Charles reassesses the arrangements made during the late Queen's reign.
