King Charles III and Queen Camilla will not reside at Buckingham Palace after extensive refurbishment work, estimated at nearly $370 million, is completed. The palace will continue to serve as the operational center for the monarchy, referred to as 'monarchy HQ,' but it will not be the King's official residence. Clarence House will remain the King's London home.
A palace spokesperson stated that His Majesty has "huge affection for Buckingham Palace and a deep respect for its role in royal and public life." The spokesperson added that the palace "will be a buzzing hive of royal activity in every other way."
The decision to not reside at Buckingham Palace is also reportedly linked to increasing public access to the landmark. Royal security concerns would typically limit visitor numbers and areas if the King were in residence, and a change in this arrangement could allow for greater public engagement with the iconic building.
The announcement comes as a string of royal accounts were published. In a related poll, readers were asked if King Charles and Queen Camilla should live at Buckingham Palace following the renovations.