In a surprising turn of events, Pippa Middleton, sister of Princess Catherine, and her billionaire husband James Matthews are facing backlash from their neighbors.
The couple has made headlines for their recent decision to block access to a footpath on their lavish $29 million estate in West Berkshire.
This move has ignited a heated dispute within the local community.
The controversy began when the couple decided to close off a lane that had been accessible to villagers for years.
Previously owned by design mogul Sir Terence Conran, the estate allowed locals to stroll along a picturesque path leading to the mansion’s private driveway.
However, the new owners have reportedly taken steps to restrict access, erecting signs that read “private, no public access,” and “no trespassing.”
Neighbors have expressed their outrage at this decision, labeling it as outrageous.
Many residents are calling for the couple to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the importance of community and shared spaces.
One local resident, who has walked the path for decades, lamented, “When Sir Terence had it, he had no objections.
He was very nice.
Everyone liked him.
I think we should have the right to roam.”
Another frustrated villager echoed these sentiments, stating, “It’s a shame.
It’s a lovely walk.
These people seem to be overprotective of their property.” They argued that Pippa and James are depriving the village of an amenity that has long been enjoyed by its residents.
Conversely, some locals have come to the couple’s defense, pointing out that they are within their rights to restrict access to their property.
They argue that while the path was open under the previous owner, it was never a public right-of-way.
“If it was their house or garden, would they want anyone to walk through it?” one resident questioned, highlighting the complexities of property ownership and public access.
Pippa Middleton, who married hedge fund manager James Matthews in 2017, lives with their three children—Arthur, Grace, and Rose—in a stunning 145-acre estate.
The couple is known for their high-profile lifestyle, and their recent actions have drawn both support and criticism from those living nearby.
In March, the Matthews submitted a highway declaration notice to West Berkshire Council, officially marking their territory as private.
Although the road is currently off-limits, the decision has yet to be finalized.
This has left residents in limbo, unsure about their rights to the path they’ve used for years.
Their estate, purchased in 2021, boasts a grand Georgian mansion with 32 rooms, set against a backdrop of beautiful countryside.
However, the couple has faced scrutiny before over their renovations, including the installation of a large swimming pool in a historic walled garden.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential impact on nearby ancient sites.
The Matthews’ estate is situated in an area renowned for its natural beauty, contrasting sharply with the more modest home of Princess Catherine and Prince William.
The Wales family recently relocated to Adelaide Cottage, a four-bedroom residence on the Windsor Home Park estate, after vacating their Kensington Palace apartment.
This shift marks a significant change for the royal family, who once resided in a lavish 20-room apartment that was a former home of Princess Margaret.
Now, they enjoy a quieter life, with the ability to walk to Windsor Castle in just ten minutes.
As the dispute between Pippa and her neighbors unfolds, it raises questions about the balance between private property rights and community access.
The ongoing saga serves as a reminder of how even the most affluent individuals can find themselves at odds with the communities they inhabit.
