Prince William, Kate and family . Picture: Instagram
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Kate Middleton and Prince William's move to their larney new family mansion at Fort Lodge has reportedly forced two families out of their homes nearby.
The royal couple, along with their three children - Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7- are set to make this eight-bedroom mansion their “forever home” in Windsor Great Park, as revealed by the Daily Mail.
But not without a cost. According to insider reports, the two families living in Crown Estate cottages adjacent to the lodge were told earlier this summer to pick up and move.
The neighbours were allegedly informed that the royals would be making the area their residence, leaving them little choice in the matter.
“They were not expecting it,” a source claimed, shedding light on the abrupt nature of their displacement.
The circumstances surrounding their departure appear anything but straightforward.
While the families were tenants, they were not handed eviction notices and have since moved to equally suitable housing in the vicinity.
In light of recent trials—including Kate's battle with cancer—the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are seeking a "fresh start," moving from their current residence at Adelaide Cottage, situated conveniently near Windsor Castle.
“Those houses are very close to the lodge,” the insider added, hinting at the royal family's desire for privacy and exclusivity.
Their new Windsor residence is rumoured to be worth around £17 million.
As they prepare to settle in later this year, sources said the royal family hopes to consolidate their roots in the area after a turbulent phase.
“Windsor has become their home,” remarked an insider, hinting at emotional ties forged in the community.
During a recent visit to Colchester Hospital, Kate spoke candidly about her cancer journey, revealing her struggle to regain normalcy after treatment.
“It’s been a really, really difficult period of my life,” she confessed.
Perhaps this new chapter at Fort Lodge will bring the peace and stability they crave.
The Daily Mail has also been told that it is William's 'intention' to remain in their new Grade II-listed property even after he succeeds his father King Charles III to the throne.
The source said: "This is for the long term and it's their intention to stay in Forest Lodge once he becomes king."
This would break a centuries-old tradition, with the British monarch having lived in Buckingham Palace since 1837.
NEW LIFE: Princess Kate and Prince William
Image: Instagram/Chris Floyd