The Queen is reported to have had a £20,000 "wheelchair-friendly' lift installed at her cottage in Balmoral in order to help with her mobility.
The 95-year-old monarch is expected to spend more time at the Scottish estate as she begins to separate herself from many royal engagements. The Times reports that the seven-bedroom Craigowna Lodge had also been fitted with a stronger gate, more modern intercom system and extra CCTV.
It is understood that the lift can fit up to three adults and plans have been sent to the local council for approval, Wales Online reports. It is believed that the cottage is a favourite location for the Queen and she often spends a lot of time there in April and the summer months.
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It was also a favourite of the Duke of Edinburgh, who would stay there with the Queen during their annual summer holiday. The location was also used by Prince Charles and Princess Diana for their honeymoon in 1981.
Concerns over the Queen's mobility have been raised after she was photographed using a walking stick last months in a video meeting with two defence chiefs. At the time she joked: "Well, as you can see, I can't move."
She was also forced to miss the Commonwealth Day service due to concerns relating to her comfort journeying from Windsor Castle. James Andeson, chairman of Ballater and Crathie community council, told The Sun locals would be happy to see more of the Queen.
Buckingham Palace is yet to provide any comment on the instalment of the lift.
