Buckingham Palace is about to undergo a £370m renovation – but when the scaffolding comes down next year, King Charles will not be moving back in. The King and Queen will remain at Clarence House, their home since their marriage in 2005, the Royal Family confirmed in a statement, saying the decision would allow more rooms to be opened to the public.
The refurbishment, funded by the Sovereign Grant that covers the King's official duties, includes extensive rewiring and replacement of pipework. When the King is in London, his Royal Standard flies from both Buckingham Palace and Clarence House, but after the works finish in March, the palace will serve only as the administrative headquarters of the monarchy.
“King Charles will not live in Buckingham Palace after its £370m refurbishment, staying at Clarence House instead.”
Tens of thousands of visitors still turned out to see the palace on a searing Friday, and many told Metro they were dismayed by the news. 'I think it's a big shame,' said Stefano Clemente, a 45-year-old tourist from Corsica. 'The idea that when you visit the King could be in the palace any far from you is very cool. For the tourists I think some of the magic or mystique will be lost.'
Alexa Wong, 24, a mother of one who came from Asia, said: 'We love the idea of the royal family. I think we all assume that the King lives in Buckingham Palace. The place is legendary and to think they will not be there does take away some of the fairytale idea.'
Deirdra Spence, planning a whirlwind tour of royal landmarks, called the decision 'a bit of an own goal for the monarchy', adding: 'A lot is being spent on the building so I think they should live there to keep with tradition.'
Not everyone was disappointed. Gale Dudley, 58, said: 'I follow the royals and I'm here today knowing full well the King and Queen don't live there. I still think it's a magical place.'
A spokesperson for the King attempted to strike a conciliatory note: '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.'
But for many tourists, the building that has been the sovereign's residence since 1837 will lose some of its mystique without a royal couple behind its walls. The State Rooms, already opened to the public for short periods, are expected to be accessible more frequently – a small consolation for visitors who came hoping to glimpse the King.