Residents in Latimer, Buckinghamshire, have been left frustrated after filming for a new Harry Potter adaptation temporarily cut off access to their homes. The main thoroughfare through the village became "gridlocked" as production crews descended, forcing locals to take an 11-mile detour.
Filming restrictions and resident backlash
Filming took place between September 28 and 30, with residents warned in advance that access would be compromised. A letter from production company Plum Jam Productions, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Discovery, said disruption could occur as the "set was dressed" and period vehicles positioned. Locals were given permits allowing access through the village at 8am and 5pm on Monday and Wednesday.
However, on Tuesday, all access except for emergency vehicles was shut off between 7am and 7pm, forcing residents to take an 11-mile detour. Candice Adams, a teacher who lives near the centre of Latimer, told the BBC: "They had no concern for how we were going to get in and out. They were only worried about their production over those three days. We are taxpaying residents and our access has been cut off ... I do feel like we've all been left in the lurch."
Ms Adams said those living in the middle of the village were "completely landlocked" as the main thoroughfare was blocked by production traffic.
Residents describe gridlock and stress
Julia Jenkin, who lives near Ms Adams, said she was not planning to leave her house during the three days of filming. "It's gridlock, basically," she added. "I think [the film crew] tried their best to be helpful, but I still think it's caused a huge amount of stress."
Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone, a new adaptation of JK Rowling's popular books by HBO, will premiere on the streaming service this Christmas.
Council defends process
Thomas Broom, Buckinghamshire Council's deputy member and cabinet member for transport, said the temporary closure had followed the "usual notification, consultation and assessment processes". He added: "Buckinghamshire has a strong track record of attracting film and TV productions, which bring economic benefits to local communities. The production company engaged with residents and local stakeholders throughout the planning process, and feedback helped shape measures to minimise disruption where reasonably practicable."
