Local residents near Windsor Castle have expressed outrage over a new policy requiring them to pay an entry fee to visit the historic landmark. Starting June 1, 2024, the 31,500 residents of Windsor and Maidenhead will no longer be able to visit Windsor Castle for free.
Instead, they will be charged 50% of the regular entrance fee, which translates to £16.50 from the standard £33.
This policy change marks the first time in 200 years that locals are required to pay to enter the castle, a move that has left many residents feeling betrayed.
Historical Context of Free Access
The tradition of free access for local residents dates back to Queen Victoria’s reign in 1837, when she introduced free tickets for her loyal subjects.
This practice continued uninterrupted until 1992 when a devastating fire caused £36.5 million in damage to the castle. To fund the restoration, an £8 entrance fee was introduced for visitors.
Despite this, Queen Elizabeth II upheld the tradition of allowing local residents free entry, recognizing their long-standing relationship with the royal residence.
The Royal Collection Trust’s Decision
The Royal Collection Trust (RCT), which manages all royal residences and their extensive art collections, has decided to end this long-standing tradition.
According to the RCT, the decision is part of a regular review of their pricing policies.
However, this abrupt change has not been well-received by the local community, who feel that their unique status as neighbors to the castle has been overlooked.
Community Reaction and Petitions
Julian Tisi, the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Windsor, has voiced his strong opposition to the new policy.
Tisi emphasized the deep connection residents have with the castle and their role in promoting it to visiting friends and family.
He has called on the RCT to reconsider and suggested a meeting with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council to find a compromise that allows residents to continue visiting for free.
Residents’ Outrage
The decision has sparked significant anger among locals. Paul Oatway, a former Grenadier Guards Sergeant, expressed his indignation, highlighting how residents endure the inconveniences of tourism, such as road closures and crowded public spaces.
He argued that the tradition of free entry was a form of compensation for these disruptions and a gesture of goodwill from the royal family.
Michelle Farmer, another local resident, shared her frustration on social media, stating that she frequently takes visiting family and friends to the castle, indirectly contributing to its revenue.
The notion of being charged to access what she considers a local heritage site has left her feeling deeply upset.
Historical Significance of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, has been the home of 40 kings and queens since William the Conqueror began its construction in 1070.
It also houses St. George’s Chapel, the burial site of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and other notable royals.
The late Queen Elizabeth II had a particular fondness for Windsor Castle, which she considered her favorite residence throughout her 70-year reign.
In contrast, King Charles III has shown less interest in the castle, preferring to stay at Highgrove or Clarence House in London.
Calls for Intervention from King Charles III
Many locals hope that King Charles III will intervene and reverse the RCT’s decision. Richard Endacott, a former chairman of the West Windsor Residents Association, highlighted the minimal financial impact that free entry for residents would have on the castle’s revenue.
He pointed out that the revenue generated from over a million tourists annually far outweighs any potential losses from allowing locals free access.
The Impact of Tourism on Windsor
Tourism significantly impacts the daily lives of Windsor residents. The influx of visitors leads to overcrowded streets, road closures for events like the Changing of the Guard, and higher prices in local businesses.
Despite these challenges, residents have traditionally accepted these inconveniences, partly because of the compensation of free entry to Windsor Castle.
Conclusion
The decision to charge Windsor and Maidenhead residents an entry fee to visit Windsor Castle has sparked considerable controversy.
Locals feel that this change undermines a long-standing tradition and disregards the unique relationship they have with the royal residence.
As the community mobilizes to oppose this new policy, many hope that King Charles III will intervene to restore free access and uphold the goodwill between the crown and its neighbors.
The outcome of this dispute will not only affect local residents but also reflect the broader relationship between the monarchy and its subjects.
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