Pippa Middleton Faces Local Dispute Over Estate Road Closure

Pippa Middleton and her husband, James Matthews, are at the centre of a planning dispute after an estate road closure. The issue concerns Mill Lane on the Barton Court estate in Berkshire.

Background

Mr Matthews bought the Barton Court home in 2022. Shortly after, an electric gate and railings were reported installed in October 2022.

Signs reading “no access” and “no entrance” were placed at the lane’s entrance. Locals say the closure blocks access to a long-used public footpath.

Local reaction

West Berkshire Ramblers applied for a definitive map modification order. The council then designated Mill Lane as part of a public right of way.

Residents told the Ramblers and local officials the lane provides a vital link around Kintbury. They say the alternative route runs along a busy, hazardous road.

Community concerns

Locals argued the metalled roadway was used freely for years. They described no previous gates or signs impeding walkers.

Several parishioners said losing the route would remove a key local amenity. They warned about pedestrian safety on Station Road.

Estate’s position

Barton Court’s estate manager, Patrick Newnham, objected to the public designation in 2024. He said the lane “has been, and remains, marked as private”.

Mr Matthews’ formal statement argues the route does not meet legal requirements to be classified as a footpath. He added that allowing public access would raise privacy and security concerns for his family.

The estate also maintains that signs controlling access existed since at least the 1980s. It said other, more attractive walking routes are available around Kintbury.

Inquiry and next steps

The estate is challenging West Berkshire Council’s decision. A public inquiry by the Planning Inspectorate will hear the challenge.

The inquiry is scheduled to begin on 14 May. Interested parties and witnesses will present evidence then.

Timeline

• 2017: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews married.
• 2022: Matthews bought the Barton Court property.
• October 2022: An electric gate and new signage were reportedly installed.
• 2024: Estate manager objected to the public designation.
• 14 May: Public inquiry set to begin.

As the case proceeds, Pippa Middleton faces a local dispute stemming from the estate road closure. Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and report updates.