Coach restrictions planned for Cotswolds village

Restrictions to coach access to Bibury have been proposed. The Cotswold village experiences high numbers of coach parties.

The proposals were made following a review by a working group of local officials, who were called following concerns raised around the number of coaches to Bibury. The coaches have been blamed for causing congestion and creating safety issues for residents and visitors.

Currently, the village has two coach parking bays near a bridge over the River Coln.

The working group made up of representatives from Gloucestershire County Council (tourism, highways and parking), Cotswold District Council, the Parish Council and Gloucestershire Constabulary came together to collectively discuss ideas and proposals.

The first stage of changes the group plans will involve changing the layout of coach parking bays to stop coaches from parking or waiting in the layby on the B4425 next to the Swan Bridge in the centre of the village in the next two months. The second stage involves exploring further restrictions on coach access to the centre of the village. This would be dependent on the outcome of a legal consultation process that will start in early summer.

In the long term, the group’s recommendations include prohibiting coach stopping and parking. Signage could be introduced to prevent congestion by directing coaches away from narrow routes.

A review existing weight restrictions on the bridge could also take place.

The working group suggests working with stakeholders to manage over-tourism and market transport by encouraging minibus travel and public transportation. It also aims to conduct feasibility studies to identify potential areas outside the village for coach parking.

“We also understand that these proposals may not be popular with coach operators” – Cllr Stephen Davies, Leader of Gloucestershire County Council

Cllr Stephen Davies, Leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said the proposed measures will help manage traffic more effectively and enhance the overall experience for everyone. He said: “We also understand that these proposals may not be popular with coach operators, however we are determined to work to find a solution for coach tourists to be able to visit Bibury but this will take time. Therefore, we have attempted to find compromise solutions that offer outcomes which continue to welcome visitors in a managed way, whilst also addressing safety and congestion concerns of the village.”

“Bibury welcomes tourists but the influx of large coaches really poses a danger to residents and visitors” – Cllr Lisa Spivey, division member for South Cerney

Cllr Lisa Spivey, division member for South Cerney, said: “I am delighted to see some positive action on this issue. I have been working closely with the residents of Bibury since they first highlighted it to me 18 months ago. Bibury welcomes tourists but the influx of large coaches really poses a danger to residents and visitors and makes the village chaotic almost all year round. These measures will help restore some calm so that everyone can enjoy this beautiful historic village.”

“…the pressures put on us by the sheer volume of tourists visiting and coaches bringing tourists has become intolerable and unacceptable” – Cllr Craig Chapman, Chairman of Bibury Parish Council

Cllr Craig Chapman, Chairman of Bibury Parish Council, said: “While the residents of Bibury acknowledge that we live in a lovely village the pressures put on us by the sheer volume of tourists visiting and coaches bringing tourists has become intolerable and unacceptable. As a consequence of the lack of infrastructure, road narrowness and the disruptive and unsafe location of the two existing coach bays, it is a fact that Bibury is not a suitable destination for larger coaches. We are therefore thankful that the issues we face have been recognised and positive actions are being taken. We very much appreciate the outcome of the working group who have worked tirelessly to identify solutions and drive action. While this is the start of action it is very positive and I am confident will be appreciated by the community.’’