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last mo.

Bibury Implements First Steps to Manage Over-Tourism and Coach Traffic

The Cotswold village has begun altering coach parking near Swan Bridge, with further restrictions under review to address safety and congestion concerns.

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Rows of 17th-century weavers’ cottages led William Morris to declare Bibury the most appealing village in the country

Overview

  • Bibury, a small Cotswold village, is struggling with over-tourism, driven by social media, with up to 20,000 visitors and 50 coaches arriving on peak weekends.
  • The first stage of a two-step plan is now underway, focusing on altering coach parking bays near Swan Bridge to improve safety and reduce congestion.
  • The second stage, which could include legal measures to restrict or ban coach access entirely, will be reviewed following consultations starting this summer.
  • Local residents and officials describe the situation as 'intolerable,' citing safety risks, congestion, and violent incidents stemming from parking disputes.
  • Efforts aim to balance preserving Bibury’s charm and welcoming tourists with addressing the challenges posed by its limited infrastructure and narrow roads.