The Duke of York, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, is set to move into a property that requires enrolment in an official flood warning system, due to its location in an area with a recognised high probability of flooding.
Marsh Farm's Flood Risk Designation
Planning documents confirm that the five-bedroom Marsh Farm at Wolferton on the Sandringham estate is situated within an Environment Agency Class 3 flood zone. This designation indicates properties in the area are at significant risk. According to the Royal family's own website, the farm is surrounded by land that sits below sea level.
While substantial sea defences and a modern pumping station mitigate much of the immediate danger, the inherent risk remains. Neighbours of the disgraced former prince have already been advised to sign up for the Environment Agency's Floodline Warnings Service, which provides alerts via phone, text, or email. It is expected Andrew will receive similar guidance upon his move.
Defences, Risks, and Royal History
The flood risk assessment was detailed in a report commissioned by the Sandringham estate last year. The document, prepared by Ellingham Consulting, noted that the primary risk would stem from a breach of the tidal defences protecting the area from the North Sea, roughly a mile away. These defences, comprising a natural shingle ridge and a raised flood embankment, are currently in 'a fair condition'.
A key protective feature is the Wolferton Pumping Station, initially opened by King George VI in 1948. This station drains thousands of acres of marshland, transforming it into productive farmland. The late Queen Elizabeth II officially opened a rebuilt, more efficient station on the same site in 2020, continuing her father's legacy.
The report stated that, considering climate change, there is an annual one in 200 chance of farmland behind Marsh Farm being flooded. An assessment map indicated such an event could submerge the property's front garden and driveway under up to 25cm of water, though it would likely stop short of entering the house itself.
Preparations and the Move from Royal Lodge
Work is underway to prepare Marsh Farm for Andrew's arrival. Contractors have been seen installing a 6ft tall security fence, CCTV, and security lighting. Equipment for receiving Sky TV has also been fitted. The property is believed to require extensive renovation before being habitable.
This move follows the King's decision to remove Andrew's 'prince' title and relocate him from the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he has lived since 2003 with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The relocation comes after intense scrutiny over his links to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. King Charles is reportedly privately funding the move to the Sandringham estate property.
While there has been no official confirmation, speculation points to Marsh Farm due to the ongoing work and an extension of the no-fly zone for drones around Sandringham to include the Wolferton area. Sources suggest Andrew may need to vacate Royal Lodge by January 25 and could temporarily reside elsewhere on the estate before Marsh Farm is ready.
