Decorators have been observed working around the clock at Frogmore Cottage for several weeks, according to royal insiders, as discussions intensify regarding Prince Andrew's departure from Royal Lodge.
The Grade II-listed Windsor property has seen continuous activity, with tradesmen reportedly spotted inside the residence both during daylight hours and after dark.
An insider told the Sun: "People have been inside Frogmore Cottage working day and night. Over the weekend, the lights were on after dark."
The 65-year-old prince has signalled during what sources describe as "advanced talks" his willingness to vacate Royal Lodge, provided he receives access to the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Prince Andrew's Royal Lodge exit looms as 'decorators spotted at Frogmore Cottage'
|GETTY / PA
The renewed preparations at Frogmore Cottage have fuelled speculation about an imminent resolution to the protracted negotiations over Andrew's living arrangements.
The property underwent extensive refurbishment in 2019 when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex invested £2.4million in repairs and upgrades.
The comprehensive renovation programme included the installation of underfloor heating systems, a copper bathtub, and an outdoor barbecue area.
Interior designer Vicky Charles from Soho House oversaw the transformation, which featured eco-friendly vegan paint in the nursery. The cottage now boasts two orangeries, a dedicated yoga studio, and a vegetable garden amongst its amenities.
Initially funded by taxpayers, the renovation costs sparked public criticism when Harry and Meghan relocated to America in 2020. The couple subsequently reimbursed the full amount to the public purse.
Princess Eugenie, Andrew's daughter, resided at the property briefly during the lockdown period, marking the only occupancy since the Sussexes' departure.
A dual-property arrangement has emerged as the potential resolution, with Andrew's ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, 66, reportedly showing interest in Adelaide Cottage. However, other insiders have alleged the cottage is not involved in the Windsor reshuffle.
Whatever the conclusion, the property will indeed become available when Prince William, Kate and their three children relocate before the end of the year, as confirmed by Kensington Palace.
Sources indicate that "a number of options" are under consideration for the divorced couple, who continue to share Royal Lodge despite their 1996 divorce.
Prince Andrew previously had no intention of moving into Frogmore Cottage (pictured)
| PAAndrew holds a lease on the 30-room Royal Lodge extending until 2078, having paid no rent for two decades. His ex-wife has resided there since 2008, maintaining their unusual domestic arrangement post-divorce.
Recent weeks have seen mounting pressure on the couple following significant developments.
Andrew agreed to relinquish his royal titles amid ongoing scrutiny over his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Sarah faced similar consequences, losing positions with multiple charities after an email was exposed in which she referred to Epstein as her "supreme friend".
A friend of the couple told the Sun: "Pressure has been cranked up in recent weeks."
These revelations have reportedly accelerated negotiations, with sources suggesting Andrew could receive substantial compensation for early lease termination.
Palace insiders suggest an official statement regarding Andrew and Sarah's future accommodation arrangements may be forthcoming, potentially concluding what has been termed the "Siege of Royal Lodge".
The ongoing negotiations between representatives of King Charles and the couple's team have yet to produce a formal resolution.