Pippa Middleton Sparks Local Controversy Over Estate Footpath Closure
In recent news, Pippa Middleton, sister of Princess Catherine, and her husband, billionaire James Matthews, are reportedly facing backlash from local residents over a controversial decision on their $29 million West Berkshire estate. The couple has become embroiled in a heated dispute with their neighbors after closing off access to a footpath running through their property.
The village dispute began when Pippa and James reportedly installed signs reading “Private – No Public Access” and “No Trespassing” near their expansive property, which was previously owned by design tycoon Sir Terence Conran. Conran had allowed locals to use the scenic footpath that leads to the mansion’s private drive, which locals have enjoyed for decades. However, residents now claim that the Matthews’ decision to block access has left them feeling deprived of an important village amenity.
One long-time resident expressed frustration, saying, “I’ve been walking along there for 50 years. When Sir Terence owned it, he had no objections. He was very nice and involved in the community. We should have the right to roam.” Another villager added, “It’s a shame. It’s a lovely walk, and it feels like Pippa and James are being overprotective of their property.”
Despite the criticism, some locals have defended the couple, pointing out that the path was never officially a public right of way. “Many assumed the path was public, but it never was. If it were their home, would they want people walking through it without permission? The Matthews are simply exercising their rights as property owners,” a resident noted.
Pippa Middleton and James Matthews married in 2017, and they share three children: Arthur, Grace, and Rose. They currently live in a $15 million home on a vast, 150-acre estate that boasts 32 rooms. Recently, the couple added a gated entrance and filed a declaration with the West Berkshire Council to confirm the path’s private status. Although the change is not yet official, their intentions have stirred strong emotions among the village locals.
Their estate, purchased in 2021, also includes a lavish Georgian-style home. However, the property has seen changes that have concerned some preservationists. In 2022, the couple constructed a large, 82-by-19-foot swimming pool, which raised questions over potential Middle Stone Age artifacts in the area. The estate lies within a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, close to ancient woodland.
In contrast, Princess Catherine and Prince William recently moved from their Kensington Palace apartment to the more modest Adelaide Cottage in Windsor. Their new home is located in the Windsor Home Park estate, near Windsor Castle. The Prince and Princess of Wales had lived at Kensington Palace for nearly a decade before relocating to Windsor, where they now reside with their three children.
