Prince Andrew Relinquishes Another Royal Property

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is giving up the lease on East Lodge, a property near his former home at Sunninghill Park in Berkshire. This move comes weeks after he vacated Royal Lodge in Windsor and as scrutiny increases over the financial arrangements surrounding royal properties.

Details of the Lease

East Lodge, a Grade II-listed thatched cottage, has been leased by Prince Andrew since 1998. The annual rent has increased over time, rising to just under £13,000 as of last year . The tenancy was originally set to continue until 2027, but Prince Andrew has requested early termination .

Context of the Changes

This decision follows Prince Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge, where he lived for nearly two decades. His move to Sandringham was prompted by his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, allegations he has consistently denied . He also recently gave up the lease on a second Crown Estate property weeks after being exiled from Royal Lodge .

Crown Estate Scrutiny

The leases held by members of the royal family are facing increased scrutiny from the Public Accounts Committee, which will begin an inquiry later this year to ensure value for money for taxpayers . The committee, chaired by Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, will aid transparency in public-interest information .

Property History

East Lodge is a 19th-century, single-story cottage located about five miles from Windsor. It was originally the lodge for Sunninghill Park, Prince Andrew’s home until 2004. Sunninghill Park was sold in 2007 for £15 million, a sale that was considered controversial at the time .

The move to relinquish the lease on East Lodge further simplifies Prince Andrew’s residential arrangements .