James Matthews Fights Public Footpath at £15M Estate, May 29

James Matthews appeared at a planning inquiry on May 28 to oppose a public footpath application on his Barton Court estate in West Berkshire. The West Berkshire Ramblers submitted the application to establish public access to part of the driveway at the £15 million, 145-acre property. Matthews cited security concerns tied to his family’s high public profile and stated the driveway was never used publicly before the application. A ruling is expected next month.

Security Gates Installed Before Footpath Application

Matthews purchased Barton Court in August 2022 and moved in that autumn. He installed an electric security gate at the entrance, completed in September 2022, before any footpath application emerged. No parish council or village representatives contacted him about the gate at that time. The financier stated nothing in the property purchase process indicated public usage of the driveway.

Enhanced Security After Footpath Application Filed

After the West Berkshire Ramblers submitted their application, Matthews upgraded security further. Gates at Station Road were upgraded in summer 2025 and kept closed. Matthews told the hearing: “There are implications for my family, due to their high public profile, which means there is a need for a higher level of security than would otherwise be the case.”

Inquiry Hearing and Expected Ruling

The inquiry opened on May 28 at Kintbury Coronation Hall in Hungerford. Further witnesses will give statements and face cross-examination by both parties and the Inspector. The inquiry was paused until May 28 to allow additional evidence. A decision is expected in June 2026.

Public Right of Way Standards in UK Planning

UK law allows ramblers to establish public rights of way through private land if they can prove 20 years of continuous use. The West Berkshire Ramblers must demonstrate the driveway meets this threshold. The hearing centres on access to part of the driveway at the couple’s estate. The Inspector will weigh evidence from both sides before issuing a binding decision.

Final Thoughts

Matthews faces a legal test of whether his private driveway qualifies as a public right of way under UK law. The June ruling will determine if ramblers gain permanent access to part of his 145-acre estate.

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