James Matthews Faces Footpath Verdict as Inquiry Closes, June 04

A public inquiry into a contested footpath at James Matthews’ Berkshire estate wrapped up on June 3 after three weeks of hearings. Matthews and his wife Pippa Middleton, sister of Catherine, Princess of Wales, oppose a bid to legally recognise a 935-foot public right of way through their 145-acre property. A planning inspector will now decide whether the path qualifies as a public footpath under UK law.

The Dispute Over Barton Court

James Matthews and Pippa Middleton purchased Barton Court in Kintbury, West Berkshire, in autumn 2022 for £15 million. They installed an electric security gate in September 2022, which blocked access to a 285-metre driveway section. The West Berkshire Ramblers group applied in January 2023 to legally recognise the route as a public right of way. West Berkshire Council found the path was “reasonably alleged to exist as a public right of way,” triggering the formal inquiry.

Matthews’ Security and Privacy Arguments

Matthews argues that public access creates security risks for his family due to their high profile. In written submissions, he stated public recognition “would cause very real practical/privacy difficulties and security issues.” His legal representative, Paul Wilmshurst, told the inquiry that the ramblers group had “struggled to show the required use” under UK law. Lady Conran, a former resident, testified she saw only one person using the path in 30 years.

Ramblers’ Evidence of Long-Term Use

The West Berkshire Ramblers argue the path has been regularly used for over 20 years and is “woven into the lives of many people of Kintbury.” Emma Rowland, representing the ramblers, presented “clear and consistent evidence” of its use dating back to at least 1994. UK law allows a path to be designated as public if used continuously for 20 years without force, secrecy, or permission, or if evidence shows a landowner allocated it for public use.

What Happens Next

The planning inspector will review all evidence and issue a ruling within weeks. If the inspector finds the path meets legal criteria for public use, it will be officially registered as a right of way. Matthews can appeal the decision, but the burden would be high. The outcome will set a precedent for similar disputes between private landowners and local communities over historical access routes.

Final Thoughts

The planning inspector’s decision will determine whether Kintbury residents retain access to a path they have used for decades or whether Matthews’ security concerns override public rights. The ruling touches on a broader tension between private property rights and community access in rural England.

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