THE UK village that was recently named the world’s most beautiful could soon introduce a new ban that would impact tourists.
Bibury in the Cotswolds managed to beat other pretty destinations around the globe to be named the most beautiful village in the world.
However, the quaint village has been struggling with a major issue with tourists for a while now, and soon it could introduce a ban on coaches visiting to help curb this.
A new proposal has been introduced to permanently reduce traffic to the popular village.
This comes after 20,000 people visited Bibury during one weekend this year.
As a result, residents started to campaign for a ban on coaches from driving through the centre.
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Then in May, a trial where coach bays were temporarily shut and buses were only allowed to use designated drop-off and pick-up zones was implemented.
Gloucestershire Council is now suggesting to make this permanent.
Under the new ban, there are also plans to extend yellow lines to prevent parking issues, introduce a new pay-and-display system and improve access near a school and church, with short-term parking.
There would also be a number of new seating areas and raised kerbs.
If approved, the new measures will be introduced by early summer next year.
One resident previously told The Sun that the village had gone from “10 to 90 coaches a day”.
Councillor Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Bibury is one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic destinations, but its popularity has created real challenges for residents and visitors alike.
“These proposals aim to make the village safer, reduce congestion, and protect its unique character, while supporting a sustainable visitor economy.
“We want to hear from everyone affected by these changes, so please take part in the consultation and help us deliver a solution that works for the whole community.”
Many locals blame social media for the rise in visitor numbers and over the years pictures have circulated of visitors climbing over walls into private property and cars parking illegally.
Tourists flock to Bibury for a number of reasons including seeing the famous Arlington Row which is said to have inspired Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.
The village was also used as a filming location for Bridget Jones’s Diary and Stardust.
And William Morris even called it the “most beautiful village in England“.
The village is also home to St Mary’s Church, which dates back to 899 and is Grade I listed.
Inside the Anglo-Saxon church, visitors can see Norman doorway arches, a 13th century font, and 17th century table tombs.
You can also visit Bibury Trout Farm, which is one of the oldest in the country dating back to 1902.
Visitors can see the trout as they are fed and there are a number of other animals to spot at the farm, like ducks, swans and even kingfishers.
There are plenty of other places to explore in the Cotswolds including a village with its own sandy beach and lagoon – miles from the English seaside.
Plus, ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ is one of UK’s most romantic villages – thanks to riverside restaurants and stargazing hotspot.