Prince Andrew has been warned to get moving or face potential health problems in the latest development surrounding Royal Lodge. As we reported, new images have surfaced showing that Andrew ’s 31-bedroom Windsor residence, the Royal Lodge, estimated to be worth around £30 million, is in a state of disrepair.
The pictures show signs of decline with black mould, dampness, and flaking paintwork on the exterior, including outbuildings and the gatehouse; furthermore, external walls are suffering from mould damage and decay.
The Duke of York has lived at the property since 2003 when he inherited it following the death of the Queen Mother. This news comes amid speculation that King Charles has put a stop to Andrew's annual £1 million allowance due to tension between the siblings over the future of the property.
It is believed that King Charles has instructed The Keeper of the Privy Purse to cease these payments. At the age of 64, Andrew is thought to have previously invested approximately £7 million into refurbishments of the Royal Lodge lease in 2003 after the passing of the Queen Mother.
Since becoming monarch, it is said that King Charles has made several attempts to convince Andrew to vacate the lodge for Frogmore Cottage, which was previously home to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Despite these financial constraints, the Duke of York reportedly insists on staying at the Royal Lodge. A royal source told The Sun that Andrew "is determined to stay in the Royal Lodge".
But analysing the new snaps emerged following the reports Charles has cut his brother's £1million yearly allowance, property expert Terry Fisher from We Buy Any Home, as reports the Scottish Daily Express, and said the structural issues could not only cause financial strain, but health issues too.
The pictures show exterior walls with visible mould, deteriorating patchwork and structural cracks. Andrew has reportedly already spent millions on repairs after he took on the 75-year lease in 2003, but now may need to make further payments costing £400,000 a year, The Sun reports.
Terry Fisher told Reach PLC: "If Andrew doesn’t tackle the visible mould and structural cracks soon, it could have far-reaching effects. For one, if left untreated, damp and mould can lead to more serious health hazards and even impact the liveability of certain areas.
“Structural issues, if allowed to worsen, might also raise questions from the Crown Estate about his stewardship of the property."
Gov.UK states that damp and mould within a home can produce allergens, irritants, mould spores and other toxins that can be harmful to health.
Healthline additionally warns that those who already have allergies or asthma, could be at greater risk. They add that touching or inhaling mould spores can cause allergy-like symptoms such as; runny nose and congestion, eye irritation, sneezing, as well as lung irritation.
Reports claim that the upkeep of the Windsor estate home is part of the duke's lease. he currently shares the property with ex wife Sarah Ferguson.
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The Duke Of York is thought to have plans to pass down the property to their daughters,Beatrice and Eugenie, however this may need further approval, according to Terry.
"Such leases aren’t always straightforward inheritance-wise; transferring the lease to non-working members of the family could likely require the Crown Estate’s approval, especially under King Charles, who might prioritise other uses for royal properties," he shared.
"In other words, while Andrew has substantial rights under the lease, he may still face limitations in passing it on to family without special permissions."
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