Former royal police chief emphasizes the necessity of a contentious six-mile exclusion zone surrounding Prince William and Princess Kate’s new residence due to serious security concerns.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge relocated to Forest Lodge in Windsor with their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—in October. Their move from Adelaide Cottage to Windsor occurred in 2022, with the eight-bedroom estate deemed suitable for their young family.
Local dog-walkers have expressed discontent over the implementation of a six-mile security perimeter around the property, which has restricted access to popular woodland walking areas.
The establishment of this security measure, known as a ‘ring of steel,’ falls under Section 128 of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005.
Dai Davies, former head of Royal protection at the Metropolitan Police, highlighted that the area surrounding the residence was identified as a top national security priority due to Prince William’s position as the future king and his children’s royal status. Davies argued that the threat from terrorists and organized criminals necessitated the limitation of access to parts of Windsor’s Great Park.
In response to concerns, Davies dismissed claims that the family’s privacy influenced the decision significantly, asserting that the primary reason for the security measures was the protection of the royal family from potential threats.
While acknowledging the inconvenience faced by locals, including ramblers and dog walkers, due to restricted access to previously open areas in Windsor Great Park, Davies stressed that the safety of the heir to the throne takes precedence over public access rights.
Recent events include King Charles greeting well-wishers after attending church in Sandringham, where he appeared in a brown full-length coat and grey suit, accompanied by family members and other royals.
King Charles was joined by relatives and senior royals at the church service, continuing the tradition that also saw the presence of the Queen and the