This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been at the center of controversy over their £2.4 million cottage renovation at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor Castle. The renovation, which began in April, has sparked outrage among the public, with many questioning the use of public funds for the project.
According to the royal accounts, the couple has spent a whopping £2.4 million of public funds on their home improvements, with the total bill expected to reach up to £3.2 million. The funds come from the Sovereign Grant, valued at £82.2 million this year, which is comprised of profits from the Queen's property portfolio (the Crown Estate) paid to the Government.
Twenty-five percent of these profits are paid to the monarchy to fund the upkeep of its property, travel, security, and staff. While the Sovereign Grant is not taxpayer money, it is considered public funds belonging to the state.
However, the couple has also spent £250,000 of their own money on the fixtures and fittings at Grade II-listed Frogmore.
So, what has the cash been splashed on? The renovation project involved converting five 'dormitory-style units' into one large, reportedly five-bedroom, property. The construction work alone on such a project could cost up to £1.25 million, says architectural technologist Nicholas Stockley of Resi Architects.
Other costs include the installation of new water mains, which may run to £750,000, and the environmentally aware couple's decision to pay personally to install a £50,000 'eco-boiler' housed in its own building on the premises.
The 17th-century property will have been rewired, in part to comply with building regulations, but also to allow for the use of the 'smart' technology Harry reportedly wanted. This would enable the couple to control lighting, heating, and security through an app on their smartphones.
Another source has told the Mail that a sound system has also been installed throughout the cottage, which Meghan has spoken of the 'positive vibes' she gets from music.
