Kensington Palace is set to be transformed ahead of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's arrival later this year.

Officials from Historic Royal Palaces have applied to build a two-storey basement beneath the historic Grade I-listed Orangery in the grounds of the royal residence, The Telegraph reports.

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It's believed that the 50m-long basement is needed to provide space for members of William, Kate and Prince Harry's staff, who will support the royal trio as they take on more royal duties on behalf of the Queen. The development, which is expected to add 1,500 square metres of extra room over three floors, will also house ceremonial dresses from the royal collection.

However, the extension plans haven't avoided controversy, as a new policy introduced by Kensington & Chelsea Council is trying to limit the spread of 'mega-basements' in the area. Thanks to the status of these particular residents, it's likely that planning officials will be encouraged to make an "exception" in this case, though.

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The planning application submitted to the council last week explains: "The addition of a basement storey is required to allow for the accommodation of administration which must necessarily be moved out of rooms leased from the Royal Household in Kensington Palace."

As well as the new and improved Orangery, the royal couple will make use of 22 rooms and two kitchens in their refurbished apartment at the Palace. According to multiple reports last year, the relocation from the couple's Georgian country house, Anmer Hall, will happen this autumn, just in time for Prince George to start school.

Kensington and Chelsea council said it could not comment on the extension proposal before it is discussed by officials later in the year.

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From: Harper's BAZAAR UK