Prince Andrew is “going nowhere” as the Duke of York is “asking staff for advice” amid his battle with the King, a source has claimed.
Andrew is thought to have taken up gardening as a hobby whilst battling to remain at his Windsor home amid eviction threats from King Charles.
The Duke of York has been spotted “pottering around” Royal Lodge, seeking advice from groundsmen as he attempts to spruce up the 30-room mansion that requires significant repairs.
Sources close to the royal household describe Andrew as having “a spring in his step” despite the ongoing dispute with his brother over his continued residence at the property.
Prince Andrew is ‘going nowhere’ as Duke seeks advice amid battle with King
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The King previously suggested that Andrew move to the more modest four-bedroom Frogmore Cottage, Prince Harry and Meghan’s former home.
Royal staff have observed the Duke actively engaging with the estate’s groundskeepers, seeking their expertise on managing the extensive grounds surrounding Royal Lodge.
“The Duke has been walking round the estate a lot recently, speaking to staff and asking for tips on managing the grounds,” one royal source told The Mirror.
Andrew has reportedly been inquiring about “different kinds of trees and shrubs” and discussing the possibility of relocating certain trees.
Royal Lodge is located on the Windsor EstateGettyHis newfound interest in horticulture comes as the property has “fallen into disrepair and needs a lot of attention,” according to sources familiar with the situation.
The Duke remains locked in what royal sources have dubbed the “Siege of Royal Lodge” with King Charles, insisting he will not vacate the property.
Andrew has told friends he is “going nowhere” and maintains he possesses a “cast iron lease” signed for 75 years in 2003.
The property requires an estimated £2million in renovation fees, which Andrew claims he can afford despite questions surrounding his finances.
Fergie and Prince Andrew snubbed from royal Easter pictures as King draws clear line.Getty.Work reportedly began on the roof and crumbling facade last year but has since stalled.
The dispute has led to what sources describe as a “drastic state of relations” between the King and his younger brother.
In an apparent bid to secure his residence, Andrew is now reportedly planning to personally oversee renovation works at Royal Lodge.
Sources indicate he intends to “project manage renovations himself” and even undertake some of the landscaping work to reduce costs.
As part of his 75-year lease, the Duke of York agreed to maintain Royal LodgePA
This hands-on approach marks a significant change for the 65-year-old Duke, who previously spent months “moping around in his house, watching TV in a dark room” after being removed from royal duties.
“He’s certainly got a spring in his step and is a lot cheerier of late, which is surprising given everything he has going on,” a royal source noted.
“He’s no Alan Titchmarsh, but he’s certainly showing a different kind of enthusiasm for finding ways to stay in his house.”
Despite reports suggesting the Duke could be in line for a return to royal duties, sources told The Mirror this “will never happen”.
Prince William’s influential position within the monarchy would prevent any comeback, as he reportedly considers his uncle “utterly toxic” for the royal brand.
