The Crown Estate has spent £369 million updating the infrastructure at Buckingham Palace in a mammoth 10-year project that concludes next year. Despite the extensive renovations,
His Majesty King Charles III has decided that he won’t be moving in once the works are over. This decision has been met with backlash, but his loyal supporters remain steadfast in defending the monarch.
© Getty ImagesSpeaking on Jeremy Vine On 5, Former MP Norman Baker has raised arguments around Charles’ decision, saying he changed his mind after all of the money was spent. He also points out that he believes profits from royal estate tickets should go directly to the Treasury.
After Norman’s appearance was shared to Facebook, fans leapt to defend the King, pointing out that Clarence House is a smaller, more intimate, and reasonable principal residence for a mature couple. Also noting that it is significantly cheaper to heat, run, and staff than the 775-room Buckingham Palace.
© Tim Graham Photo Library via GetOne user explained in defence of the KIng: “He still uses it [Buckingham Palace] as his place of work. Visitors to Buckingham palace and other royal residences brought in £85 million last year. So in approximately 4 years it will have paid for itself at today’s prices. King Charles is planning to open more hours next year and also private tours are to be introduced, he is very conscious of the potential to raise more funds to help support the maintenance necessary.”
Another added: “Living at Clarence House saves a lot of money: fewer staff, lower heating bill, less electricity, less water usage etc. It has always been their principal married home, smaller, more intimate and more cosy for a mature couple. It helps too that it is a stone’s throw from BP and way more private.”
© Getty ImagesKing still has “huge affection” for Buckingham Palace
King Charles confirmed in June that he will remain at Clarence House even once the renovations are complete. A palace spokesperson added: “”His Majesty retains huge affection for Buckingham Palace and a deep respect for its role in royal and public life. “It will be a buzzing hive of royal activity in every other way.”
The King believes the palace should be used for “greater public benefit rather than greater private benefit,” they added.
© Getty Images“It will remain a working home but we are seeking to widen public access precisely to maximise the national benefit of a publicly-funded building.”
Clarence House holds a lot of fond memories for the monarch because his grandmother, the Queen Mother, used to live there. Many parts of the residence have been kept the same as when she used to live there, preserving her memories.
