**Inside Prince Andrew’s Deteriorating Royal Lodge: A Glimpse of Neglect**

In a startling revelation, an insider has unveiled the dismal state of Prince Andrew's 30-room Royal Lodge, which is plagued by dampness and decay.

Once a symbol of royal prestige, the lodge is now reminiscent of a forgotten relic, echoing the Duke of York's own fall from grace following his removal from royal duties amid the Jeffrey Epstein scandal—a situation he continues to vehemently deny.

Sources close to the situation have shared with Express.co.uk that for Andrew, losing this cherished residence would be an even greater shock than his departure from royal duties.

Despite the lodge's crumbling condition and the constant presence of pest control services, the Duke seems determined to hold onto his home.

One might think that being ousted from the royal family would be enough to weigh on a prince's spirits, but the reality is far more grim.

Upon entering the Royal Lodge, visitors are greeted by an eerie atmosphere, evoking images of Miss Havisham's abandoned mansion.

An insider described the interior as perpetually cold, with air circulation rarely prioritized.

The lack of basic maintenance—like opening windows for fresh air—has exacerbated the moisture issues, leading to an environment ripe for mold growth.

Occasionally, electricity is turned off to address damp patches on the walls, but these efforts appear superficial at best.

The situation is further complicated by reports indicating that the Windsor estate is at risk for flooding, necessitating urgent damp-proofing measures.

Due to its expansive parkland and woodlands, the estate tends to retain more water than surrounding areas, contributing to the mold and mildew problems plaguing nearby residences.

Alarmingly, younger royals are reportedly hesitant to bring their children to the lodge due to these serious health concerns.

In May, Prince Andrew's decision to spend £20,000 on exterior paint raised eyebrows regarding his financial stability.

Just last month, scaffolding was erected around the property to facilitate necessary repairs.

Sources indicate that despite lacking a formal income, the Duke remains committed to maintaining the lodge, which has already drained millions in renovations and demands hundreds of thousands annually for upkeep.

A source revealed that if Andrew were to lose the Royal Lodge, it would signify a devastating blow for him.

He is currently striving to comply with the terms of his lease while overseeing ongoing repairs.

Work on the walls, windows, and exterior painting is underway, with plans for internal renovations in the coming months.

King Charles had previously granted Andrew a stay of execution on the condition that he cover the substantial repair costs for the mansion, valued at £30 million.

Since signing a 75-year lease for Windsor Great Park in 2003, Prince Andrew has found himself burdened by the financial responsibilities tied to the property.

Failure to maintain the lodge could result in eviction.

The current state of disrepair is evident, with moss creeping up the exterior and paint flaking away, a stark reminder of neglect.

The lease stipulates that the lodge's outer walls should receive two coats of paint every five years, starting in 2008, and that interior renovations occur every seven years since 2010.

While internal work is slated for this year, the external painting was due last year, highlighting a pattern of delay and oversight.

The interior of the lodge is equally concerning.

The source emphasized that neglect extends beyond the exterior.

Windowsills in the drawing room are visibly moldy, and even the once-lovely orangery has its share of issues, including rotting woodwork and damaged doors.

The TV room houses an old television, and the fireplace requires cleaning—an undertaking complicated by damaged tiles.

The overall ambiance of the Royal Lodge resembles a run-down Victorian seaside hotel, albeit one adorned with rare artworks and antiques.

Unfortunately, the presence of pests, including moths and rats, has become a recurring issue, evidenced by the frequent sighting of pest control vehicles parked outside.

The bathrooms are in dire need of attention, with flushing issues stemming from years of neglect.

Originally built in the 17th century and remodeled in 1830, the Royal Lodge has a storied history.

It was gifted to King George V and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, but has faced maintenance challenges before.

Two decades ago, Prince Andrew invested millions into restoring the mansion, yet it is now clear that a comprehensive renovation is urgently needed to revive its former glory.