In a surprising turn of events within the royal family, sources close to the king have revealed a new strategy that is causing quite a stir.
The latest development indicates that the Prince and Princess of Wales may not be in line for an anticipated upgrade, much to the surprise of many royal watchers.
The crux of the matter lies in the ownership dispute over the Royal Lodge, a property that has become a focal point of contention between the king and his brother, Prince Andrew.
Back in 2003, Prince Andrew secured a 75-year lease for the Royal Lodge from the Crown Estate.
However, tensions have escalated as the king is reportedly urging his brother to consider downsizing from the Royal Lodge to Frogmore Cottage.
Interestingly, Frogmore Cottage holds significance as it was previously occupied by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as their UK base before being asked to vacate by the king after a year.
Prince Andrew, on the other hand, has expressed his intentions to pass on the Royal Lodge to his daughters upon his demise and is adamant about not relinquishing the property.
Should Prince Andrew eventually vacate the Royal Lodge, speculations suggest that it could potentially fall into the hands of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Transitioning from their current residence at the four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage to the grandeur of the 30-room Royal Mansion would signify a significant upgrade for the royal couple.
However, insiders privy to the situation have hinted at a different direction proposed by the king regarding the fate of the Royal Lodge.
According to sources cited by The Sun, returning the property to the Crown Estates for necessary refurbishments and subsequent rental could serve as a more lucrative option, benefiting not only the royal coffers but also the country at large.
The reluctance of the Prince and Princess of Wales to engage in property transfers seems to have influenced the king’s strategic decisions, as noted by royal expert Gareth Russell in an interview with GB News.
Despite the logical choice pointing towards the royal couple, their apparent disinterest in relocating has prompted the king to explore alternative avenues.
Complicating matters further is the financial aspect, with reports suggesting that the king currently allocates a substantial annual sum to Prince Andrew for his occupancy at the Royal Lodge.