Prince Andrew under fire as Royal Lodge controversy sparks calls for voluntary exit

Public outrage is mounting over Prince Andrew’s continued residence at his lavish 30 bedroom Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor, as critics question the fairness of his “peppercorn rent” arrangement, which has lasted for more than two decades. 

The 75 year lease, signed in 2003, is overseen by the Crown Estate, the body responsible for managing the royal family’s vast portfolio of land and properties.

Senior Conservative Robert Jenrick added fuel to the fire, saying it is “about time Prince Andrew took himself off to live in private,” noting that “the public are sick of him.” 

Parliamentary committees are also expected to scrutinise the Crown Estate’s handling of the Duke of York’s long term occupation, with growing calls for greater transparency regarding royal property arrangements.

The Duke’s continued use of Royal Lodge has become a flashpoint, symbolising the clash between public sentiment and royal privilege. 

Critics argue that maintaining such an opulent residence while embroiled in controversy is untenable, particularly given the scale of the mansion and the minimal rent paid. 

Andrew Lownie, speaking on HELLO!’s podcast, weighed in on the ongoing Royal Lodge controversy, revealing “the only way” Prince Andrew might give up the property.

“He has this ironclad lease as long as he maintains its terms,” Lownie explained. “The only way I think he can go is voluntarily. 

The optics are terrible for a non-working royal to be in a 30 room mansion. He is, of course, an honourable man and always puts the country and the monarchy first, so I hope he will do the right thing.”

Lownie also suggested that external pressure might influence the Duke’s decision. 

“The only pressure that could be put on him is regarding how his daughters are treated perhaps if their future prospects were at stake, he might act differently.”