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Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson have agreed to leave their Royal Lodge home in exchange for two separate residences, according to reports. The King's brother is said to be in talks with Charles' representatives about leaving the 30-room mansion voluntarily following controversy over the "peppercorn" rent arrangement.
Andrew has reportedly requested Frogmore Cottage, the former home of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, while Sarah Ferguson may relocate to Adelaide Cottage. A friend told The Sun that Andrew is "willing to leave" but "these are his demands", adding that he "knows the writing is on the wall and that his time at Royal Lodge is up".
Royal property reshuffle
Prince William, Kate and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are due to move from Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge next month. The eight-bedroom Grade II-listed residence sits in Windsor Great Park, making Adelaide Cottage available for Sarah Ferguson's potential use.
A source close to the couple told The Sun the arrangement reflects practical considerations. "Frogmore Cottage is too small for both and Adelaide Cottage is around the corner so they will see each other whenever they want," the friend said, adding that both properties offer space for their daughters Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice to visit with their families.
Strain on relationship
Sarah Ferguson and Andrew have lived together at Royal Lodge since 2008 despite being divorced, appearing "like they are still a married couple" according to sources. The decision to pursue separate homes reportedly indicates they have been "under immense strain this year and need a break from one another".
Friends of the pair also reportedly stated Sarah "feels like she deserves a royal home to see out her years". A source described the move as "a fresh start for both" after what has been described as an incredibly difficult year.
Mounting pressure
King Charles has long encouraged his younger brother to move out of Royal Lodge, where Andrew has lived for more than 20 years. Charles reportedly first offered Frogmore Cottage to Andrew in January 2023 after Harry and Meghan moved out, but Andrew declined the offer.
Andrew attempted to draw a line under years of controversy earlier this month by giving up his dukedom and other honours ahead of Virginia Giuffre's posthumous memoir publication. The prince strenuously denies allegations that he sexually abused Giuffre.
Property controversy continues
Criticism has continued focusing particularly on the property arrangement that has allowed Andrew to live at Royal Lodge effectively rent-free since 2003. Obstacles to reaching a final settlement reportedly centre on where Andrew will live and what financial compensation he might receive for renovation costs.
The Government has so far refused to allocate time in the House of Commons for MPs to discuss Andrew's situation because the royal family wants Parliament to focus on "important issues". However, the issue could be raised on days when ministers are not in control of the parliamentary timetable.
Sources used: "The Sun"
Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
