King Charles and Queen Camilla will not reside at Buckingham Palace following the completion of a £369 million refurbishment next year, according to the latest royal accounts. The palace, which has served as the official London residence of the UK sovereign since 1837, will remain the monarchy's administrative headquarters, but the King has decided that Clarence House will continue to be his official home.

This decision comes as the decade-long refurbishment of Buckingham Palace nears its end in March. The extensive works are replacing aging infrastructure, including cables, pipes, wiring, and boilers, many of which have not been updated in 60 years, amid concerns over potential fire and water damage. The temporary increase in the Sovereign Grant, which funds royal duties, is financing these renovations.

Officials stated that a key reason for the King's decision is to allow for greater public access to the historic landmark. The King and Queen, both in their late 70s, are also understood to prefer remaining at Clarence House, where they have lived since their marriage in 2005 and the King has resided since 2003. The upheaval of moving themselves and their staff to Buckingham Palace was considered undesirable.

Furthermore, having the King in residence at Buckingham Palace could have limited visitor numbers and the areas accessible to the public. The palace currently opens its State Rooms to visitors during the summer and on selected dates, with proceeds benefiting the Royal Collection Trust. A longer period of public access could potentially generate more income.

A palace spokesperson emphasized that King Charles retains significant affection for Buckingham Palace and respects its role. The King will continue to host numerous events at the palace, including state banquets, garden parties, receptions, and audiences with the prime minister and ambassadors, ensuring it remains a vibrant center of royal activity.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about the decision. Norman Baker, a former Liberal Democrat minister and critic of royal funding, suggested that ticket sales from Buckingham Palace should go to the Treasury, especially if the monarch does not reside there. He argued that increased public access for 12 months a year could generate revenue to offset refurbishment costs.

Graham Smith, CEO of Republic, a campaign group advocating for an elected head of state, questioned the government's £369 million expenditure on renovations if the King does not intend to live in the palace. He called for the palace to be fully open to the public year-round.

Despite not being a primary residence, Buckingham Palace will continue to host official events and serve as the monarch's administrative base when in London. The King's Royal Standard will still fly from the palace when he is in the city, signifying its ongoing importance in royal life.