Pippa Middleton and James Matthews Face Backlash Over Footpath Closure

In a turn of events that has stirred up quite the local uproar, Pippa Middleton and her billionaire husband, James Matthews, are finding themselves at odds with their neighbors.

The couple's recent decision to block off access to a footpath on their lavish $29 million estate in West Berkshire has sparked controversy and discontent among the community.

The dispute began when Pippa and James decided to close a lane that had previously been accessible to locals.

This charming path once led up to their stunning property, which was formerly owned by renowned design tycoon Sir Terence Conran.

Sir Terence had a reputation for being neighborly, allowing residents to stroll along the footpath without any hindrance.

However, that all changed when the Matthews took ownership.

Now, the couple has installed signs declaring “private, no public access, and no trespassing,” a move that many locals have deemed outrageous.

Some feel that this action is not just an inconvenience but a deprivation of a cherished community amenity.

One neighbor expressed their frustration, reminiscing about their 50 years of walking the path and lamenting that Sir Terence had always welcomed the village's presence.

Another villager echoed this sentiment, stating, “It's a shame.

It's a lovely walk.” They criticized the Matthews for being overly protective of their property, emphasizing that the area is peaceful and free from vandalism.

It seems that many in the village feel a sense of loss over the closure, viewing it as a blow to their community spirit.

On the flip side, some locals argue that Pippa and James are well within their rights to restrict access to their property.

They point out that the footpath was never a designated public right-of-way.

As one resident put it, if it were their home, they wouldn't want strangers wandering through their garden either.

The Matthews are simply asserting their ownership, a perspective that has divided opinions in the village.

Pippa, the younger sister of the Princess of Wales, married hedge fund manager James Matthews back in 2017.

Together, they reside in a grand property that boasts 32 rooms and spans across 145 acres.

They have three young children: Arthur, Grace, and Rose.

The couple's lifestyle contrasts sharply with that of Pippa's sister, who has recently moved to a more modest home with her family.

Earlier this year, Pippa and James took steps to formally declare their property boundaries by submitting a highway declaration notice to West Berkshire Council.

This action has made it clear that the road leading to their estate is now off-limits to the public, although the official status of the closure is still pending.

Their estate, purchased in 2021, is a Georgian masterpiece that has drawn attention for more than just its grandeur.

In 2022, concerns were raised regarding the preservation of the historic fabric of the home after the couple undertook significant renovations, including the installation of a large swimming pool.

There are also worries about potential archaeological sites nearby, adding another layer of complexity to their ownership.

The Matthews' home is set in an area celebrated for its natural beauty and proximity to ancient woodlands.

This picturesque setting contrasts sharply with the new residence of the Wales family, who have opted for a more understated lifestyle in Adelaide Cottage, located on the grounds of Windsor Home Park.

Princess Catherine and Prince William now call this four-bedroom home their own after vacating Kensington Palace, where they lived for nearly a decade.

The move comes in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II's passing and signifies a shift in the royal family's living arrangements.

Adelaide Cottage, while smaller, offers a cozy environment for the family, allowing them to enjoy walks to Windsor Castle in just about ten minutes.

This change reflects a more grounded approach to royal life, especially compared to Pippa and James's opulent surroundings.

As the dispute continues, it remains to be seen how the Matthews will navigate the community's sentiments and whether they will reconsider their decision regarding the footpath.

For now, the neighborhood is left grappling with the implications of the couple's actions and what it means for their shared spaces.