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.
- 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.