Pippa Middleton and James Matthews Face Backlash Over Footpath Closure

In a surprising turn of events, Pippa Middleton and her husband, billionaire James Matthews, have found themselves at odds with their neighbors in West Berkshire.

The couple's recent decision to restrict access to a footpath on their lavish $29 million estate has sparked a local uproar.

Residents are expressing their discontent after the couple closed off a lane that had been accessible to the public for decades.

The picturesque grounds, once owned by renowned design mogul Sir Terence Conran, featured a charming path that led up to the mansion's private driveway.

Sir Terence was well-liked in the community and welcomed locals to use the path without hesitation.

However, the new owners appear to have taken a different approach, erecting signs that read “private, no public access” and “no trespassing,” effectively shutting the door on the long-standing tradition.

Neighbors have voiced their outrage at what they describe as an outrageous move.

One villager lamented, “I've been walking along there for 50 years.

Sir Terence never objected; he was very nice and involved in the village.”

Many locals feel a deep sense of entitlement to the path, which has been a beloved route for leisurely strolls and daily walks.

Another frustrated resident remarked, “It's such a lovely walk.

These people seem overly protective of their property.

We're peaceful villagers; we don't have issues with vandalism here.”

This sentiment reflects a broader concern that Pippa and James are depriving the community of a cherished amenity that has been enjoyed for generations.

On the flip side, some residents argue that the Matthews are well within their rights to restrict access to their property.

They point out that the pathway was never designated as a public right-of-way, despite the previous owner's permissiveness.

“If it were their home or garden, would they want anyone just strolling through?”

one local questioned, highlighting the delicate balance between private ownership and community access.

Pippa, the younger sister of Princess Catherine, married hedge fund manager James Matthews in 2017.

The couple resides in a stunning $15 million property with their three children: Arthur, Grace, and Rose.

Their estate spans 145 acres and boasts 32 rooms, making it one of the most impressive properties in the area.

Earlier this year, the couple submitted a highway declaration notice to the West Berkshire Council, formalizing their claim over the private territory.

While the road is currently off-limits to the public, the council has yet to make a final decision on the matter.

The couple's actions have raised eyebrows, especially considering the historical significance of the land they occupy.

The lavish Georgian mansion, purchased in 2021, has not been without its controversies.

Last year, concerns arose over the potential impact on the estate's historic fabric after the couple excavated a large walled garden to install an expansive swimming pool.

Additionally, there were worries about nearby Middle Stone Age sites, emphasizing the area's rich historical context.

In stark contrast to Pippa's opulent lifestyle, her sister, Princess Catherine, has opted for a more modest dwelling.

The Wales family now resides in Adelaide Cottage, a quaint four-bedroom home located on the Windsor Home Park estate.

This shift comes after their departure from the grand Kensington Palace, where they lived for nearly a decade.

The change in residence for the Wales family marks a significant transition, especially following the passing of Queen Elizabeth.

Their new home allows them to enjoy a quieter life while remaining close to Windsor Castle, which is just a short ten-minute walk away.

As the dispute continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Matthews will navigate the backlash from their neighbors.

Will they reconsider their decision, or will they stand firm in their claim to the footpath?

The community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that respects both private property rights and the cherished traditions of their village.