James Matthews, the brother-in-law of the Princess of Wales, has argued that he needs to protect the privacy of his family and their pets amid a dispute over closing a footpath at his £15 million Berkshire estate. Matthews, who is married to Pippa Middleton, purchased Barton Court near Kintbury in 2022 and subsequently blocked access to Mill Lane, a track used by walkers since the 1960s, installing gates and 'Private: No Public Access' signs.
More than 30 residents, including the West Berkshire Ramblers, applied to have the route formally recognised as a public right of way. West Berkshire Council ruled in their favour, prompting Matthews to challenge the decision. The matter is now being examined in a six-day public inquiry before a planning inspector.
A representative for Matthews said: 'James Matthews has the right to create a safe environment on his private property, for his young children and family pets playing outside, away from foreseeable risks through uncontrolled trespasses and traffic.' In a written statement, Matthews added that his family's high public profile necessitates a higher level of security.
However, planning inspector Ken Taylor has told the couple that privacy and security concerns are outside the scope of the inquiry. The case will instead focus on whether the public used the route frequently enough between 2002 and 2022 to establish legal rights of access.
Local resident Trevor Coles said in a statement: 'Past proprietors of Barton Court have always respected the authenticity and value of this right of way and it is only since new owners have been in residence that obstructions have appeared.' Pippa Middleton did not attend the inquiry but was seen walking on a public footpath near the estate.
