A protracted and costly stalemate has developed within the Windsor estate, centering on the future residence of the King’s brother. The Duke, who was formally stripped of his royal titles and military affiliations several years ago following a major scandal, is now reportedly demanding a substantial financial settlement to agree to leave his long-term home, Royal Lodge.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the figure being discussed is approximately $99 million. Furthermore, the Duke is said to be insisting on a specific replacement property—a large, six or seven-bedroom house on the Sandringham Estate—along with a full complement of domestic staff and continued security provisions. The objective, insiders suggest, is to replicate the lifestyle and amenities he currently enjoys.
The King is understood to be seeking a more streamlined and modern monarchy, and the ongoing occupation of Royal Lodge by his brother is viewed as a significant and expensive obstacle to those plans. However, progress in resolving the situation is described as painfully slow. The Duke is currently remaining in place, with talks reportedly “crawling” along. Some observers believe he could potentially dig in for many more months.
Behind the gates of the 30-room mansion, little appears to have changed in daily routine, despite the profound shifts in his public status. Staff are allegedly still instructed to use his former royal style, “Your Royal Highness,” a directive the Duke justifies by claiming the rules stripping him of titles do not apply within his private residence. Those close to the situation have described him as existing in a state of denial, largely insulated from reality and focused on a quiet, repetitive daily life.
The Duke has shared the home with his ex-wife since 2008, and their two daughters have also lived there. He originally took on the lease for the property over two decades ago. The current impasse represents one of the most delicate and unresolved personal challenges facing the royal household as it continues to navigate a period of transition and change.
