Prince Andrew issued health warning as Royal Lodge saga continues
by Annabal Bagdi, Samantha Masters, https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/authors/annabal-bagdi/ · Birmingham LivePrince Andrew has been urged to take action or face possible health risks over the state of Royal Lodge. King Charles has reportedly stopped his younger brother's £1million-a-year allowance.
The Duke of York took on a 75-year lease in 2003 and is said to have spent millions on maintenance. But he now faces extra costs of £400,000 a year to keep the property in proper condition.
Recent images captured the property's exterior walls suffering from visible mould, patchy repair work and structural cracks. Property expert Terry Fisher, from We Buy Any Home, warned that the building's issues could lead to more than just financial trouble.
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He said: "If Andrew doesn't tackle the visible mould and structural cracks soon, it could have far-reaching effects. For one, if left untreated, damp and mould can lead to more serious health hazards and even impact the liveability of certain areas.
"Structural issues, if allowed to worsen, might also raise questions from the Crown Estate about his stewardship of the property." Gov. UK says that damp and mould in homes can produce allergens, irritants, and toxins that may pose health risks.
Healthline further warns that people with allergies or asthma could be at greater risk. Touching or inhaling mould spores can cause allergy-like symptoms such as runny nose and congestion, eye irritation, sneezing, as well as lung irritation, AberdeenLive reports.
Reports have suggested that maintaining the upkeep of the Windsor home is part of Andrew's Royal Lodge lease. He currently shares the home with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.
The former couple are parents to daughters Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice. The Duke Of York is believed to have plans to pass down the property to his daughters.
But this may need further approval, according to Mr Fisher. He said that while Andrew has strong occupancy rights, Royal leases often include restrictions around succession - especially for properties intended to serve working royals.
He added: "Such leases aren't always straightforward inheritance-wise; transferring the lease to non-working members of the family could likely require the Crown Estate's approval, especially under King Charles, who might prioritise other uses for Royal properties. In other words, while Andrew has substantial rights under the lease, he may still face limitations in passing it on to family without special permissions."