The Queen has reportedly had a £20,000 “wheelchair-friendly” lift fitted at her cottage in Balmoral to help her upstairs, according to reports. The monarch, 95, is expected to spend more time at the Scottish estate as she plans a future with fewer official royal engagements.
The Times reports that the seven-bedroom Craigowan Lodge in the Scottish Highlands has been fitted with the lift and extra security including a stronger gate, a more modern intercom system and extra CCTV cameras.
The lift is understood to be a Stiltz Trio, which can fit up to three adults. The plans have been sent to the local council for approval, The Times said.
The cottage, around a mile from the main castle, is thought to be one of the Queen's favourite places, with the new lift and extra security allowing her to spend more time there. She usually stays at the cottage twice a year, in April and during the summer months.
The cottage was a favourite of the Duke of Edinburgh, who would stay there with the Queen during their annual summer break. It was also used by Prince Charles and Princess Diana while the newlyweds were on their honeymoon in 1981.
The Queen was recently photographed using a walking stick. Last month, in video of a meeting with two defence chiefs, she joked: “Well, as you can see, I can’t move.” Last week she was forced to miss the Commonwealth Day service over concerns for her comfort during the journey from Windsor Castle, which has become her permanent residence.
James Anderson, chairman of Ballater and Crathie community council, told The Sun locals would be happy to see more of the Queen. Buckingham Palace declined to comment.
