Majority of Brits Oppose Tax-Funded Buckingham Palace Renovations, Poll Reveals

A new poll has found that a significant number of British citizens are against using taxpayer money for the extensive £369 million renovations of Buckingham Palace, which are set to span over a decade. Conducted by YouGov for The Times, the survey reveals that 56% of respondents believe the government should not financially support these refurbishments, while only 29% feel it is appropriate for taxpayers to cover the costs. There is a clear sentiment that the public might support the renovations if the royal family could fund them through alternative means rather than relying on taxpayer contributions.

Norman Baker, a Labour MP and author known for his critical stance on the monarchy, has voiced strong objections to the lavish nature of the renovations. He argued that the scope of the renovations is excessively grand and posited that they should be financed through proceeds from visitor ticket sales, similar to the funding approach taken for Windsor Castle’s repairs after its 1992 fire. Since 2017, Buckingham Palace has been undergoing restoration work aimed at updating aging electrical and plumbing systems that have not been upgraded since the 1950s. During this renovation period, state visits will occur at Windsor Castle until 2027.

The renovations also prompted King Charles to move his private office from the north wing to a different location within the palace. This transition was necessitated as certain areas of the palace are temporarily closed for renovations while allowing for public access during summer months. Earlier this year, the restoration of the East Wing was completed, a project that began in 2018, highlighting the ongoing progression of the royal refurbishment efforts.