Pippa Middleton Sparks Outrage with Estate Renovation Changes

Property purchase and path closure

Matthews and Middleton bought Barton Court in 2022 for £15.5 million. The 32-room Georgian house sits on about 145 acres beside the River Kennet.

Shortly after moving in, the couple installed electric gates roughly 70 metres from the entrance. They also placed signs stating “No Trespassing” and “Private: No Public Access.”

Local reaction and safety concerns

About 35 villagers, backed by The Ramblers, now seek legal recognition of Mill Lane as a public right of way. They say the route has been used since at least the 1960s.

Eugene Futcher, chairman of West Berkshire Ramblers, warned the closure could push walkers onto a busy main road. He told Filmogaz.com the loss of the path would be inconvenient and raise safety risks.

Long-time resident Rob Brown criticised the couple’s approach. Other neighbours expressed sympathy for the family’s privacy needs. They pointed out Arthur, seven, Grace, five, and Rose, three, live at the estate.

Community division

Some locals accept the need for privacy for a young family. Others resent the sudden restriction of a route traditionally open to the public.

Legal challenge and next steps

In 2024, Matthews filed a highway declaration claiming Mill Lane is not public. The council initially sided with villagers. Matthews then lodged an objection through his land agent.

A government-appointed planning inspector will examine the case next month. The inspector’s determination will be legally binding.

Planned renovations put on hold

Earlier this year, renovation plans for Barton Court were paused. Archaeologists identified a site that could contain significant remains.

Proposed works included a greenhouse, stables and a garden room. Heritage Planning Services warned the land lies within an area of potential Palaeolithic archaeology.

Archaeological concerns

Experts said the ground could hold prehistoric, medieval and post-medieval deposits. As a result, the planned extensions remain suspended pending further investigation.

The row has attracted wider attention. Headlines reflect the mood, with many readers debating how estate renovation, privacy and public access should be balanced. Filmogaz.com will monitor the inspector’s decision and any further developments.