William and Kate 'make huge decision' that could change Buckingham Palace forever
The Prince and Princess of Wales are reportedly planning a significant relocation from their modest Adelaide Cottage residence to Forest Lodge in Windsor - prompting speculation about Buckingham Palace's future.
Sources suggest Prince William and Kate will personally fund the extensive refurbishments which are required for the magnificent eight-bedroom Windsor property, with plans to complete the move before the end of the year.
As insiders describe Forest Lodge as the family's potential "forever home", questions are now being asked among royal circles regarding the fate of the historic palace, as the iconic building may face an unprecedented future without a reigning monarch in residence.
The Waleses are reportedly eager to depart Adelaide Cottage, where they have been based for the past three years, seeking a fresh beginning in new surroundings after enduring Kate's recent cancer battle and the late Queen Elizabeth's death, reports the Mirror.
Should William and Kate proceed with their reported intention to remain at Forest Lodge throughout William's eventual reign, it would mark the first occasion since medieval times that a British sovereign has chosen not to reside in a traditional castle or palace.
However, one royal insider told the Daily Mail: "The late Queen said she had to be seen to be believed. I just hope that the Prince of Wales can find the right balance between raising his family away from the public glare at Windsor with the presence required of him as a future, and eventual, head of state."
Buckingham Palace, the monarch's official London residence, is presently experiencing extensive renovations from top to bottom, including a comprehensive redecorating of the late Queen's private quarters, costing a staggering £369 million in taxpayers' money.
Because of the massive restoration works, no members of the Royal Family are currently living at the Palace, as the overdue and essential repairs are addressing longstanding problems that existed before World War Two.
Nevertheless, a palace source informed the Mail that William will adopt an even more "pragmatic" stance towards Buckingham Palace going forward, emphasising that Forest Lodge will remain his family's sole "long-term" residence.
Mirroring King Charles' strategy, it's understood William will maintain Buckingham Palace's accessibility to increased numbers of visitors annually compared to current levels, creating revenue for its ongoing maintenance whilst reducing the burden on taxpayers.
The Prince of Wales is also said to be keen on expanding the amount of official entertaining that takes place at the Palace, potentially even utilising it for government and charitable events.
Under William's reign, Sandringham and Balmoral could also see an increase in visitor numbers, despite being private royal residences with no public funding.
Meanwhile, King Charles has kicked off the official start of his summer residency in Scotland. The monarch greeted tourists who were waiting at the gates of Balmoral today, Monday, August 18, as a military ceremony involving a Shetland pony marked his arrival.
Charles arrived at the Aberdeenshire estate in his state Bentley on Monday morning to inspect his Royal Guard, as well as regimental mascot Corporal Cruachan IV, a Shetland pony, as it stood with handler Corporal Rory Stewart.
A Guard of Honour was held by Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) to officially welcome the King to Balmoral, though he was in attendance at a church service there on Sunday in a private capacity.
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