Prince Andrew clings on to Royal Lodge as he finds security loophole in final hour

Prince Andrew is to stay put at Royal Lodge despite King Charles cutting off private funding for his 10-strong security detail, Express.co.uk has learnt.

According to a well-placed source, the monarch has ensured that no taxpayer money has been used to cover the Duke of York’s security costs at Royal Lodge and this will continue to be the case after his private security team leaves the property in October.

The source added that Prince Andrew has opted for a “mobile security” team as a compromise due to the escalating costs, ensuring the property is adequately protected.

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“The only reason the private security team has been discontinued is due to costs,” said the source. “There was a proposal put forward for when this contract comes to an end in October but it was too high.

“Discussions were had about using a mobile security team which still means the property [Royal Lodge] will have round-the-clock protection, regular patrols and they will always be on call.

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“A new security system will also be fitted inside the property. The costs are much lower and they will not be covered by the taxpayer.

“The Windsor estate also has a number of other royal residences and there is a constant police presence in the area. Although they are not officially assigned to Andrew, they will respond if there is a serious issue.”

Andrew has been refusing to leave the 30-bedroom property in Windsor – thought to be worth £30million – despite being offered the use of nearby Frogmore Cottage, which underwent a £2.4million renovation in 2019.

The royal has been struggling with the upkeep of Royal Lodge as he is required to “repair, renew, uphold, clean and keep in repair and, where necessary, rebuild” the mansion, according to the 75-year lease agreement granted to him in 2003 by the Crown Estate.