James Matthews, husband of Pippa Middleton and brother-in-law to Princess Kate, has sparked controversy after reportedly blocking access to a public footpath at his £15 million Barton Court estate in Berkshire. Since acquiring the 145-acre property in 2022, which includes a grand 32-room Georgian mansion along the River Kennet, Matthews has faced criticism from local residents who say his actions are “putting the public at risk.”
Residents claim that Matthews installed electric gates approximately 70 metres from the eastern entrance of Mill Lane, a footpath that serves as a key connection between the village of Kintbury and St Mary’s Church. This closure forces villagers to use a narrow, dangerous country road without a footpath or verge, increasing risks for pedestrians.
The previous owner, Sir Terence Conran, never obstructed this route and allowed unrestricted public access. However, shortly after Matthews took ownership, signs appeared on the estate warning “No Trespassing” and “Private: No Public Access,” restricting walkers from using the lane.
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In 2024, Matthews lodged a highway declaration stating that Mill Lane was not open to the public. Despite this, West Berkshire Council has designated the lane as a public right of way after local ramblers submitted evidence that the path had been freely used for more than two decades. This designation is currently under review by the Planning Inspectorate as a challenge from Matthews persists.
Eugene Futcher, chairman of West Berkshire Ramblers, highlights that locals have enjoyed “unfettered access” since the 1960s and rely on Mill Lane as a safe, scenic route to the village, avoiding the hazardous alternative along Station Road. “If walkers are forced to use the road instead, their safety is compromised," Futcher explains.
While the motive behind Matthews’ decision remains unclear, it is suggested that privacy concerns may be a factor, a stark contrast to the previous openness maintained by Sir Terence Conran.
The parish council in Kintbury heard mixed testimonies from residents about the lane, some expressing hesitation due to private road signs in the past, while others affirmed regular, long-term use. Ultimately, the council voted in favor of upholding Mill Lane as a public right of way.
Attempts to reach the Barton Court estate for comment have been made but no response has yet been received.