A picturesque Cotswolds village is set to introduce strict new regulations in a bid to preserve its distinctive charm. The stunning hamlet of Snowshill, nestled in Gloucestershire, boasts delightful cottages, traditional stone structures and spectacular vistas across the rolling countryside.
Described as like a “fairytale” by some visitors, Reddit users who have explored the locale called it “small but very beautiful” and “lush”. Multiple TikTok profiles showcase the village, with some branding it amongst the “prettiest” destinations in the Cotswolds. The location also served as a filming spot for Bridget Jones’ Diary, portraying the home of the protagonist’s parents.
Consequently, numerous holidaymakers have added it to their must-visit lists and the location draws sightseers from across the nation. However, residents of Snowshill will shortly face fresh limitations that authorities believe are essential to preserve its distinctive appeal.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) has reported that property owners will shortly need to secure planning consent for basic alterations, including window and door replacements. Constructing or modifying garden boundaries, plus fitting satellite equipment or solar installations will also come under the new measures, according to Gloucestershire Live.
Famous for its winding pathways, Snowshill possesses a unique historical essence that the regulations aim to safeguard. This represents the position of local councillors who approved the modification this week.
Tewkesbury Borough Council approved the Article 4 direction this week. The decision targets controlling the threat of potentially inappropriate developments taking place under permitted development rights in the Gloucestershire village.
Officials contend that this action is vital considering the remarkable historic nature of the village and its vulnerability to physical changes. Consequently, from October 1, permitted development rights will be withdrawn for a restricted selection of primarily household modifications and enhancements in Snowshill.
Permitted development rights presently enable property owners to undertake particular construction work and modifications to their homes without requiring planning permission applications.
They include window and door replacements, porch construction, garden hard surfacing, boundary fence erection and modification, satellite dish and solar panel installation, and exterior building painting.
Planning committee chairwoman Sarah Hands delivered a report during the council meeting on July 29. She advised the council that the Article 4 directive would protect the unique historic nature of the Snowshill Conservation Area.
She said: “This direction is aimed at managing small scale domestic developments, such as changes to windows, walls, and exterior finishes which could otherwise be made under permitted development rights.
“The Article 4 directive will help ensure that any such changes are carefully controlled to prevent cumulative harm to the area’s heritage.
“It’s designed to strike a fair balance between preserving local character and respecting. The direction is not intended to prevent all development, but rather to ensure that changes are managed appropriately and in line with national planning guidance.
“It will only come into effect once confirmed by the council, with the proposed date of the commencement being the first of October 2025.” She disclosed that five people submitted remarks concerning the proposal, with the majority voicing concerns.
“Some felt it could place undue burdens on property owners carrying out routine maintenance such as repairing gates and fences or repainting,” she added. “In response, the proposal has been refined to clarify that repainting of the same color or routine maintenance would not apply.
“While a few other concerns were raised, none were considered sufficient to justify withdrawing the direction.” The proposal received unanimous approval from the councillors, who hope the village will retain its unique appeal to visitors from far and wide.