New traffic rules as village faces 'overtourism'

Restrictions are being introduced on coaches entering a picturesque Cotswold village ahead of the bank holiday weekend, a council has announced.

Bibury, dubbed one of England's prettiest villages, is home to just a few hundred residents - yet it can draw up to 20,000 visitors a weekend, with as many as 50 coaches arriving each day.

A temporary traffic management trial, starting on Friday, will see the existing coach bays in the village centre temporarily closed and bus stops will be installed for safer passenger drop-off and pick-up.

Gloucestershire County Council said it had worked with coach operators, businesses, and the community to introduce the scheme.

The move comes just weeks after plans to create a coach parking area were scrapped, following the landowner's withdrawal amid strong opposition from local residents.

Tourists often travel to the village to see Arlington Row - which is one of the most famous views in the Cotswolds.

In recent years, residents have complained about "gridlock and parking chaos" as tourists have flocked to the area.

Over Easter, the foot of a local man was run over in a dispute over parking.

Newly-appointed county council leader Lisa Spivey said: "The safety of our residents and visitors is paramount.

"We've seen an increase in unsafe coach movements, particularly reversing into bays without proper guidance, which poses a serious risk to pedestrians and other road users.

"This trial is a proactive step to prevent accidents and ensure Bibury remains a welcoming and safe destination for all."

The council is urging visitors to park responsibly and use designated parking areas.

"Irresponsible parking not only endangers others but also detracts from the charm and accessibility of this historic village," a council spokesman said.

"Any vehicles not parked in compliance with parking restrictions will risk being issued with a parking penalty charge notice."

As part of the trial, car parking will also be suspended opposite the trout farm to provide a safe area for coaches to drop off and pick up customers.

Motorists are encouraged to use the pay and display car park at the trout farm or on The Street, which offers unrestricted parking.

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