Key Facts

• King Charles and Queen Camilla will not live at Buckingham Palace when the £369m refurbishments are completed in March, despite it remaining the official London residence of the UK sovereign and administrative headquarters of the monarchy.
• The 10-year refurbishment of Buckingham Palace, funded through a temporary increase in the Sovereign Grant, involves replacing ageing cables, lead pipes, wiring, and boilers, many for the first time in 60 years, to address concerns about potential fire and water damage.
• The King and Queen have lived together in Clarence House, beside St James's Palace, since their marriage in 2005, and it is understood that neither wanted the upheaval of moving themselves and their staff across to Buckingham Palace.
• The decision not to reside at Buckingham Palace also addresses security concerns that having the King in residence would limit the number of visitors and areas people could view, potentially allowing the landmark to open for a longer period and generate more income.
• The King will continue to host a range of events at Buckingham Palace, including state banquets, garden parties, receptions, and audiences with the prime minister and new ambassadors, with a palace spokesperson stating that "His Majesty retains huge affection for Buckingham Palace and a deep respect for its role in royal and public life."