King Charles decided not to move into Buckingham Palace after renovation completion
King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Photo: Alistair Grant / AP
The British Royal Family has published details of its finances, which indicate that King Charles and his wife, Queen Camilla, will not move into Buckingham Palace after the completion of renovations to this residence of British monarchs. The £369 million works are expected to be completed next year, writes the BBC.
Buckingham Palace, which has been the monarch's residence since 1837, will continue to serve as the administrative center of the British monarchy, but Charles's official residence will remain nearby Clarence House.
According to representatives of the Royal Household, this decision was made to facilitate public access to Buckingham Palace.
The renovation of the historic complex in central London has been ongoing for ten years and is expected to be completed in March. During the work, among other things, electrical wiring, plumbing, and boilers are being replaced. Some of this equipment has been in use for about 60 years, which creates a risk of fires or flooding.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have lived in Clarence House (located next to the historic St. James's Palace) since 2005, when they were married. Previously, Queen Elizabeth II's mother lived in Clarence House. Now the King and Queen are both almost 80 years old, and it is reported that neither of them wanted to experience the inconvenience associated with moving into Buckingham Palace and relocating all their staff there.
Buckingham Palace, photo Wikimedia Commons
Additionally, there are concerns that if Buckingham Palace becomes the King's official residence, the number of visitors would have to be reduced for security reasons. Also, fewer rooms might be accessible to the public.
However, if the King does not permanently reside in Buckingham Palace, the complex will be open to visitors for a longer period, which will allow for increased ticket revenue. Currently, the Palace's State Rooms are open to the public every summer, as well as on selected days throughout the year.
After the renovation is complete, the King will host many different events at Buckingham Palace, including state banquets, receptions, as well as traditional audiences with UK Prime Ministers and new ambassadors.
"His Majesty retains a great affection for Buckingham Palace and deeply respects its role in royal and public life," a palace official said. When the King is in London, a special royal standard is flown over both Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.
The King's private treasurer, James Chalmers, confirmed that the King and Queen will not live in Buckingham Palace, but private rooms will remain there for the monarchs to use during the working day.
"This is both a change from the past and a recognition of the future. But I want to emphasize that in all other respects, Buckingham Palace will continue to be both the ceremonial and working hub of royal life," Chalmers said.
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