Residents of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds, frustrated by the impact of overtourism, are organising a “day of action” to reclaim their village green and address issues stemming from visitor congestion and parking.
From 8am today (15 August), local residents are gathering on the village green with picnic blankets, chairs, and mobility aids to peacefully occupy this public space. Additionally, a parking protest is planned whereby residents deliberately keep their driveways clear and instead park their vehicles in free, on-street public parking areas within residential parts of the village. This action aims to encourage tourists to use official car parks rather than crowding local streets.
The event, organised by the group Bourton Residents' Voice, emphasises that this is not an opposition to tourism itself. “Tourism is an important part of our local economy, and we understand and appreciate that visitors are part of village life,” the group said. However, they call for better balance, management, and practical action to address the challenges faced by more than 4,000 residents due to high visitor volumes.
READ MORE: Gloucestershire sunflower fields still blooming amid scorching summer
The group highlighted that the pressures of tourism are no longer confined to the traditional April-to-October season but are now felt year-round. Residents want to move around safely in their own village without constant congestion and be able to park near their homes. They also seek to enjoy streets and public spaces free from excessive litter and fouling, with repairs and protection of historic walls and buildings taken seriously.
Bourton Residents' Voice expressed frustration that existing laws and regulations are not being adequately enforced and called for residents' needs to be considered alongside those of tourism. They stressed, “We have raised concerns. We have written emails. We have complained. We have spoken about these issues repeatedly. But talking about the problems on social media isn’t going to create the change our village needs. This is about taking action.”
District councillor Jon Wareing (LD, Bourton Village) said many residents have simply “had enough.” “They are fed up that the heart of their village no longer feels like a place that belongs to the community,” he added. He clarified, “This is not a protest against visitors coming to Bourton. It is a protest against what the village green has become. Bourton is not a theme park with paid actors and guides who walk away at the end of the day. Thirty years ago, it was a thriving, bustling real community. But that is no longer the reality. People still live here. But they feel forced out by the volumes of people swamping their community.”
Councillor Len Wilkins (C, Bourton Vale) acknowledged the protest has been prompted by inaction from various councils. He criticised Gloucestershire County Council for permitting coach traffic to spread throughout the village, stating, “We’ve said we can’t stop them. We don’t want them stopped; we just don’t want them parked in the village.” He emphasised that residents have been “driven to this” and although this is not their preferred course of action, they feel it is necessary to be heard.
Bourton resident Amanda Davis remarked the protest is “all about balance,” noting that what she frequently hears from neighbours is a desire for fewer visitors at peak times and greater respect for the community.
County councillor Roger Whyborn (LD, Benhall and Up Hatherley), cabinet member for road safety and sustainable transport, acknowledged the economic benefits tourism brings to Bourton but also recognised the challenges residents face with congestion, parking, and coach traffic. He affirmed, “Residents have every right to make their views known, and we respect those voices.”
He assured that the county council is working jointly with residents, the parish council, Cotswold District Council, and other partners to find a suitable balance between supporting the local economy and preserving residents' quality of life. Measures under consideration include a residents' parking permit scheme, enhanced parking controls, and improved coach management. He welcomed ongoing community feedback.
Tony Dale, Cotswold District Council’s cabinet member for leisure, culture and visitor experience, also acknowledged the pressures tourism can place on residents. He stated the council is committed to collaborating with partners to manage these challenges effectively. He encouraged residents to engage constructively with the council on potential solutions, highlighting that some proposed measures require changes beyond current legal powers.
Both councils urged visitors to park legally and act respectfully to help maintain Bourton’s charm and community life. Ongoing collaborations with local authorities aim to develop practical steps ensuring Bourton remains a village where visitors can enjoy their stay while residents can continue to live comfortably and safely in their community.