Residents of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds, frustrated by the impact of overtourism, are launching a “day of action” to reclaim their village green and address parking congestion in the village.
From 8am on August 15, local inhabitants will gather on the village green, bringing picnic blankets, chairs, and mobility aids to occupy this public space. Alongside this, a parking protest is planned where residents will deliberately leave their driveways empty and instead park their vehicles in free on-street spaces within residential areas.
The initiative aims to encourage tourists to use official car parks rather than filling neighbourhood streets, easing congestion and improving residents' quality of life.
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Organised by Bourton Residents' Voice, the event is not intended to discourage visitors but to call for better management and a more balanced approach to tourism. The group emphasises that tourism remains vital to the local economy and welcomes visitors as part of village life.
However, with a population exceeding 4,000, residents say the increasing volume of visitors has become a year-round issue, leading to constant congestion, difficulty parking near homes, excessive littering, damage to historic walls and buildings, and concerns over safety.
The group stresses the need for existing laws and restrictions to be enforced fairly and for the needs of residents to be considered alongside those of tourists. After numerous complaints and discussions, they believe timely, practical action is required rather than simply talking about the problems on social media.
District councillor Jon Wareing (Liberal Democrat, Bourton Village) noted that many locals feel the heart of their community no longer feels like it belongs to them due to the overwhelming visitor numbers. “This is not a protest against visitors coming to Bourton. It is a protest against what the village green has become,” he said. Wareing reflected on the village’s past as a thriving, bustling community, highlighting that residents now feel overwhelmed by the crowding.
Similarly, district councillor Len Wilkins (Conservative, Bourton Vale) expressed disappointment at the perceived lack of action from Gloucestershire County Council, especially concerning coach traffic management. He explained residents did not wish to stop visitors but want coaches restricted from parking within the village, and that residents have been “driven to this” protest out of frustration.
Local resident Amanda Davis described the issue as “all about balance,” sharing that many want fewer people during peak times and greater respect from visitors.
County councillor Roger Whyborn (Liberal Democrat, Benhall and Up Hatherley), cabinet member for road safety and sustainable transport, acknowledged the economic importance of tourism while recognising the challenges it poses. He affirmed ongoing collaboration between councils and local groups to find solutions, including potential residents’ parking schemes, parking controls, and improved coach management.
Tony Dale, Cotswold District Council’s cabinet member for leisure, culture and visitor experience, also acknowledged tourism-related pressures and reiterated the council’s commitment to working with partners and residents. He emphasised the complexity of the issue, noting that some desired measures may not be achievable under current laws, and encouraged residents to engage constructively to develop effective and practical solutions.
As the “day of action” unfolds, the community aims to strike a balance that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of Bourton-on-the-Water while ensuring residents can continue to live comfortably and safely in their historic village.