Gateway to Cotswolds coach restrictions – UKCOA objects

UKCOA is urging the industry to object to proposed coach restrictions in Burford, Oxfordshire.

The UKCOA says Oxfordshire County Council’s proposed Traffic Regulation Orders will severely restrict coach access to Burford, known as the ‘gateway’ to the Cotswolds. The restrictions include banning coaches over 12 metres in length from Priory Lane and removing essential coach parking facilities. These proposals threaten the viability of coach operations in the area, the local economy and the vital role coaches play in reducing car dependency and promoting sustainable tourism, according to the trade body.

The organisation is sending letters to its members and the wider industry, encouraging them to voice their concerns directly to the Council. It has prepared a template to guide operators in writing an objection letter to Oxfordshire County Council concerning the proposals.

An annual report by Burford Town Council says that as the Bourton-on-the-Water Coach Park closed in January 2024, there has been an increase in coaches visiting the Cotswolds town. There are currently four coach parking spaces in Priory Lane, which are only 7m long. The council notes that coaches are now up to 15m long. Initially it requested Oxfordshire County Council to change one parking space to a turning space to allow long coaches to turn round to leave, and to restrict coach length to 12m maximum.

UKCOA can be contacted at [email protected] or on 0333 7333 222.