Crown Estate Denies Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Six-Figure Payout for Royal Lodge Exit
Britain’s Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the Duke of York, will not receive compensation for vacating the Royal Lodge, according to the Crown Estate. The decision follows an assessment of the property, which reportedly reveals that dilapidations will negate any financial payout.
Crown Estate’s Denial of Payout
The Crown Estate informed the UK’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor would likely not be compensated for the early termination of his lease. Initially, the Crown Estate noted that if no repairs were needed, Andrew could expect a payout of £488,342.21, approximately $644,336.
Eviction Order Details
The eviction comes after King Charles requested his brother to vacate the 30-room mansion located in Windsor Great Park. In October, the King announced that Andrew would be stripped of his royal title due to his controversial association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Property Overview
- Property: Royal Lodge
- Location: Windsor Great Park, west of London
- Size: 40 hectares (99 acres)
- Features: Swimming pool, aviary, six lodge cottages, gardener’s cottage
- Ownership: Crown Estate
- Original Purchase Price: £1 million in 2003
- Lease Duration: 75 years, expiring on June 15, 2078
Under the lease terms, Andrew was responsible for maintenance and refurbishment costs. He has lived in the Royal Lodge since 2003, a residence granted to him by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Future Plans
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is set to relocate to a property on the Sandringham estate, privately owned by the British monarch. King Charles plans to cover the costs for this transition, but Andrew is expected to move only after the Christmas holidays.
Inquiry Into Crown Estate
In related news, the PAC has announced an inquiry into the Crown Estate regarding the lease agreement held by Andrew. Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, PAC chair, expressed gratitude for the information provided by the Crown Estate and Treasury. He indicated that this information will serve as a foundation for the inquiry scheduled for early next year.
The PAC’s investigation will examine the Crown Estate’s leases with the Royal Family, including properties like Bagshot Park leased by Prince Edward and the Thatched House Lodge housing Princess Alexandra and her family.
