The News
Prince Andrew’s Housing Dilemma: Security Concerns Stymie Move to Ex-Wife’s Mayfair Home
In a surprising turn of events, Prince Andrew's potential move into the Mayfair residence of his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, has been dismissed due to significant security issues.
Although the Duke of York might find temporary refuge in Sarah's Belgravia property, experts warn that the risks involved could prove too great to ignore.
King Charles is reportedly keen on removing Prince Andrew from his current residence at the Royal Lodge, citing concerns over unpaid maintenance fees that threaten the 75-year lease held by his younger brother.
This family feud has sparked intense speculation about where Andrew might live next, especially since he and Sarah continue to share a close bond despite their divorce.
Many have pointed out that Ferguson owns an unoccupied property in Belgravia worth £4 million, which could serve as a suitable home for the couple.
This location is conveniently situated near their two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who reside in a charming two-bedroom Georgian mansion nearby.
However, a royal correspondent cautioned that this arrangement may not be the ultimate solution to Prince Andrew's predicament and could potentially burden the public.
Royal critic Gareth Russell weighed in on the situation, highlighting the inherent security risks of relocating Prince Andrew to a private home in such a bustling city.
He emphasized that it would be impractical to expect a controversial figure like Andrew, who is also the brother of the reigning monarch, to live in a high-profile area without a robust security presence.
Russell elaborated that ensuring Andrew's safety would either require him to cover the costs himself—a financial burden he may struggle to maintain—or rely on taxpayer funding, which raises further complications.
“There doesn't seem to be any way in which Prince Andrew can relocate into Mayfair or any part of London without substantial security,” he stated.
Public sentiment towards Prince Andrew remains largely negative.
Polls consistently show him as the least popular member of the royal family, underscoring the challenges he faces in rebuilding his reputation.
In light of these factors, some analysts suggest that a more viable option for Andrew might be Frogmore Cottage, the former home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Given his status as the sovereign's brother, Andrew is likely to attract unwanted attention, including potential terrorist threats and kidnapping risks.