Prince William is allegedly planning to streamline the monarchy once he takes the crown, a move that one Royal authority warns could prove catastrophic.
This week brought news that the Prince and Princess of Wales are set to move from their modest Adelaide Cottage to what’s being called their “forever home” at Forest Lodge in Windsor, with reports suggesting William intends to make this his permanent residence upon becoming King.
While the relocation promises a “fresh start” for the Wales family following several challenging years, Royal expert Robert Jobson fears the move could fundamentally alter how the public views the monarchy.
This development coincides with King Charles extending a rare invitation to a seldom-seen Royal family member for the summer holidays at Balmoral.
In conversation with The Sun, Jobson warned that William’s permanent Windsor residence, combined with his alleged intentions to reduce the number of working royals, risks making him “become less connected to the people”.
The Royal biographer explained to the outlet: “People do turn out when they see, particularly people like Sophie Wessex and the new Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward. They turn out in droves. They like that connection.
“And if you lose that connection, the monarchy actually loses something that it’s about. I think you’ve got to be careful what you wish for.”
The Royal Family’s working members have dwindled to just 11 following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s exit in 2020.
This group includes King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Kent, and Princess Alexandra.
Royal commentator Jobson has indicated that changes are afoot, and Royal enthusiasts are advised to “wait and see” as Prince William reshapes his future reign according to his vision.
Acknowledging the Waleses’ move to Forest Lodge, Jobson notes that Prince William is prioritizing fatherhood to his three children while also gearing up for his eventual role as monarch.
Yet, Jobson emphasizes the non-negotiable nature of Royal duty, stating: “I think that William has got to be quite careful whilst doing this balancing act. The role of the monarch is one where duty has to come first.”
He further elaborates on the demands of royalty: “I don’t think there’s any way around that unless you want to have a part-time monarch or a president. The reality is that is the job. It’s a job for life and it’s a job that’s pretty relentless.”
Prince William, Kate, and their children George, Charlotte, and Louis are set to relocate to Forest Lodge by year’s end. They seek a “fresh start” after a challenging period at Adelaide Cottage marked by Queen Elizabeth’s passing in 2022 and health battles faced by Kate and Charles.
