Bibury Plans Coach Ban Amid Tourist Surge

The picturesque village of Bibury in Gloucestershire, England, renowned for its charming Saxon church and 17th-century cottages, is facing a crisis of over-tourism, exacerbated by social media popularity. Residents and local authorities are concerned about safety and disruption caused by the influx of tourists, particularly from coach tours, leading to overcrowding and physical altercations. In response, locals are pushing for measures to restrict coach access, including altering parking layouts and potentially banning coaches altogether. Gloucestershire County Council has announced plans to address these issues, beginning with changes to parking arrangements and a consultation on further restrictions. These actions aim to preserve the village's tranquility and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. The situation reflects a broader trend of over-tourism affecting other popular destinations across Europe.