Prince Charles has never attempted to disguise his open hostility to modern architecture; however, this design battle is now accumulating allegations of the Prince’s abuse of power. Some describe the Prince’s attempt to promote classical designs over modern as anti-democratic.

The Royal Institute of British Architects has just appointed its first female president, Ruth Reed. On only her first day she told the BBC "It is unfortunate if anybody uses their position in public life to exert undue influence on a democratic process such as planning," Here she is publically denouncing Prince Charles’ interference in construction designs suggesting that he ought to remain neutral.

Criticism of Charles took to further heights when, according to the media, the development of Chelsea Barracks was cancelled as a result of his objections to the ultra-modern project, suggesting that the construction should use materials that were used in the surrounding built environment.

In 2005, the Prince attempted to block a £500 million project by Jean Nouvel to design a complex, One New Change, near St Paul’s Cathedral. Jean Nouvel is an accomplished French architect and winner of the Pritzker Prize. However, the Prince suggested architect Quinlan Terry, who specializes in designing in historical styles, should continue the project. This attempt to block the project failed and Nouvel’s designs are under construction.

The Prince is reluctant to comment on these issues however Hank Dittmar, chief executive of the Prince's Foundation for the Built Environment, stated that the Prince was representing public interest as the public shares his classical tastes and dislikes these modern constructions.

Prince Charles has had a lot of scrutiny for abusing his position and allegedly imposing his ideals on British architects.

I do not think Charles should confuse his personal opinion with public interest.

Public interest will always reflect a wide range of opinions and whilst architecture maybe criticized for its aesthetics, taste itself is a moving feast.