One of Britain’s most photographed villages, often described as the “prettiest in the world”, could soon be transformed under major new plans to tackle overcrowding and traffic chaos caused by booming tourism.
Bibury, in Gloucestershire’s Cotswolds, is known worldwide for its honey-stone cottages and the picture-perfect Arlington Row, cared for by the National Trust. But the postcard charm that draws thousands of visitors every week has also created a mounting problem for locals, such as congestion, parking chaos and safety concerns on the narrow country lanes.
Now, Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) has announced a raft of permanent changes designed to “ease congestion, protect pedestrians and enhance the character” of the village.
The plans follow a trial scheme launched in May that altered coach bay layouts in consultation with Bibury One, a newly formed group made up of community representatives, local businesses, parish councillors, tour operators and police. Following positive feedback, the council now wants to make the measures permanent, alongside further upgrades to public spaces and parking controls.
Under the proposals, GCC would introduce new pay-and-display parking along The Street and near Bibury Primary School, with exemptions for local residents. A loading bay and designated disabled parking spaces are also planned, while yellow line restrictions will be extended to stop visitors clogging up side roads.
Other improvements include raised kerbs, seating areas and pedestrianised zones, which the council says will make parts of the village centre safer and more attractive for both locals and visitors. If approved, the changes could take effect as early as summer 2026.
Lisa Spivey, GCC leader, said: “Bibury is one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic destinations, but its popularity has created real challenges for householders and visitors alike.
These proposals aim to make the village safer, reduce congestion and protect its unique character while supporting a sustainable visitor economy. We want to hear from everyone affected by these changes.”
The council says the measures are essential to manage the 4,500 daily vehicle movements recorded crossing the village’s Swan Bridge during peak summer, a level of traffic more suited to a small town than a rural hamlet of just a few hundred residents.