Prince William is reportedly considering major changes to how royal residences are allocated when he becomes king, with non-working members of the Royal Family potentially losing access to heavily subsidised accommodation.
According to reports citing senior sources and quoted by NDTV, the Prince of Wales is planning a review of royal properties and their occupants as part of a broader effort to modernise the monarchy and reduce costs.
Focus on housing arrangements
The discussion centres on Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew, who reportedly live in royal properties without paying full market-rate rent.
According to HELLO Magazine, the sisters' rent is funded through the King's private funds and is charged at a discounted rate, estimated to be around 40 per cent below market value.
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Comparable properties in central London's royal districts can command substantial rents. Per NDTV, reports cited local estate agents as estimating that similar homes in Kensington could cost between £4,000 and £15,000 per month, while a two-bedroom flat near St James's Palace was recently listed for £19,000 a month.
Princess Beatrice of York and Mapelli Mozzi X/@RoyalFamily Long-standing arrangement under scrutiny
The housing arrangement dates back several years.
A source told The Times, "The rental deal was made with their father as he wanted them to have a foothold in the royal palaces."
Princess Beatrice reportedly maintains an apartment at St James's Palace, while Princess Eugenie occupies Ivy Cottage at Kensington Palace. Both women primarily live elsewhere with their families.
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Beatrice resides mainly in Oxfordshire with her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and their children. Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank are reported to have established their main home in Portugal.
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. X/@RoyalFamily Push for a leaner monarchy
The issue has drawn renewed attention following reports that the National Audit Office examined funding arrangements connected to royal residences. Critics have questioned whether subsidised housing for non-working royals aligns with King Charles III's stated aim of creating a modern monarchy.
According to sources quoted by The Sunday Times, William wants to ensure the institution he will eventually lead is "fit for purpose in the modern era".
Another source said William is "mindful of how much the monarchy costs" and will be "hands on" when it comes to restructuring and reducing expenses.
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Reports also note that William and Catherine pay £307,500 annually in rent for their Windsor residence.
No formal decision has been announced. However, reports suggest housing arrangements for non-working royals could be among the areas reviewed as part of a wider effort to reshape the monarchy's future.
FAQs:
Do Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie currently live in royal properties?
Yes, reports say Beatrice has an apartment at St James's Palace while Eugenie occupies Ivy Cottage at Kensington Palace.
What changes is Prince William reportedly considering?
He is said to be reviewing royal residences and whether non-working royals should continue receiving housing benefits.
