Royal Shake-Up: Meghan Markle Passes on Monarchy to Charles as Clarence House Dream Fades

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have reportedly missed the opportunity to reside in Clarence House once Prince Charles ascends to the throne, following their decision to step back from their royal duties.

The Prince of Wales took up residence in Clarence House in 2002, succeeding the Queen Mother's five-decade occupancy.

Initially, there were plans for the Duke, aged 37, and Duchess, aged 40, of Sussex to inhabit Clarence House upon Charles's coronation.

However, recent reports indicate that due to their departure from royal life, this plan has been abandoned.

According to The Mail on Sunday, the Sussexes' relocation to California has effectively removed Clarence House from their future prospects, paving the way for potential occupancy by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, or Prince Louis.

Clarence House holds historical significance as the venue where Prince William and Kate Middleton conducted their engagement interview back in 2010.

Despite its grandeur, the property's antiquated interior has deterred interest from younger royals.

Valued at over £50 million, Clarence House served as the residence for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip before her accession to the throne in 1952.

Plans are underway for Prince Charles to streamline the monarch's living quarters at Buckingham Palace post his coronation, intending to downsize the current extensive staff and guest bedrooms to a more modest flat, akin to the Prime Minister's setup at Downing Street.

A close confidant of Charles revealed to The Mail on Sunday that although there is a common belief that he is reluctant to reside at Buckingham Palace, accommodations will be made available, albeit in a more humble capacity.

Additionally, discussions have surfaced regarding the transformation of Balmoral into a museum, paying homage to the Queen's legacy.

The report also raises intriguing questions about the maintenance costs of various amenities, such as a coy pond, separate saunas, an elevator, and meticulously tended rose gardens, all of which find a place in Harry and Meghan's expansive Californian estate.

The decision by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to distance themselves from royal obligations has not only financial implications but also reshapes the future living arrangements within the royal family.

The Mail on Sunday disclosed plans for a significant reorganization post-Prince Charles's reign, highlighting his inclination to forego the opulent quarters at Buckingham Palace in favor of a more modest living space.

The prospect of King Charles III choosing not to inhabit the historic palace underscores a shift in the traditional royal living arrangements, prompting speculation on the fate of other royal residences like Sandringham and Balmoral.

Amidst these transitions, it was revealed that Harry and Meghan were once considered candidates to take up residence at Clarence House, a property with an estimated value exceeding $100 million.

However, their relocation to the United States has altered these plans, redirecting the spotlight towards potential occupants among the younger generation of royals.

While concerns over the property's outdated decor were raised, the Sussexes could have easily modernized the space to align with their preferences.

Despite its relatively smaller size compared to Buckingham Palace, the symbolism of Harry and Meghan residing in Clarence House would have carried significant weight given its rich royal heritage.