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King Charles to Retire Royal Train as Part of Monarchy Overhaul

It arrives after the Sovereign Grant report highlighted rising travel and personnel expenses despite a stable £86.3 million grant

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Overview

  • The Royal Train will be phased out by 2027 when its maintenance contract expires to reduce institutional costs
  • Two new, more efficient helicopters will replace train journeys to offer flexible and lower-cost royal travel
  • The 2024-25 Sovereign Grant report shows travel expenses up £0.5 million to £4.7 million and personnel costs rising £2 million to £29.9 million
  • The Sovereign Grant remains at £86.3 million for a fourth year with projected growth to £132 million by 2027 supported by record offshore wind farm profits
  • The Royal Household is transitioning its fleet to sustainable options and the Duchy of Cornwall has waived or cut rents for charities and grassroots groups