Prince William and Kate Middleton are preparing to relocate to their new residence, Forest Lodge, later this year. However, reports suggest that some future neighbours are already displeased with upcoming security measures connected to the move.
A New Chapter for the Wales Family
The royal couple, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, are set to move into Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom home located in Windsor. This move follows just over three years after settling into their current four-bedroom residence, Adelaide Cottage.
Forest Lodge, built in the 1700s and reportedly linked to the Duke of Windsor, sits only four miles from Adelaide Cottage. Described as the family’s “forever home,” it’s expected that Prince William will remain there even after he becomes king.
Security Measures Stir Unrest Among Local Residents
To ensure the safety of the royal family, several new security protocols are reportedly going to be implemented around Forest Lodge. These include the installation of fencing, surveillance cameras, and the enforcement of a 150-acre no-access zone. Anyone found breaching this restricted area could reportedly face arrest.
Prior to these changes, members of the public were allowed to walk near the grounds, and a Christmas tree shop was accessible nearby. The new restrictions are expected to put an end to these activities.
Neighbours Voice Their Concerns
Residents speaking to The Telegraph expressed frustration over the impact these measures will have on their daily lives.
One neighbour reportedly shared:
“[The royal family] encourage us to go out in the fresh air, and then they’re restricting us. I’m totally in favour of protecting the royal family against idiots who might try to shoot at them or take photographs. But the house is very far away, they’ve put a huge fence around it and there are lots of cameras in the fields. We’re not impressed, I’m afraid.”
Another local expressed disappointment, saying:
“I’m pretty angry about it. I think there are lots of other places they could have gone to live. I was excited when I heard they were moving there, but I always wondered how they would manage the security. They haven’t given us any warning or notice. And there hasn’t been any explanation other than it’s for security.”
A third neighbour voiced concerns over the lack of transparency:
“It’s not so much the security measure itself that people are questioning, but the lack of clarity and transparency about why specific paths were chosen and whether any alternatives will be provided. It feels like a public right of way has quietly become off-limits without explanation.”
Royal Insider has reportedly reached out to Kensington Palace for comment, though no official statement has yet been issued.
