Pippa Middleton and Husband James Matthews Face Village Backlash Over Laneway Closure
Being the sister of the future queen is not earning Pippa Middleton any favors with her neighbors in the quaint village of Kintbury, located in West Berkshire, southeast England. In fact, Middleton and her wealthy husband, James Matthews, have reportedly irritated local residents, with some describing the couple as inconsiderate and claiming they think they're a bit better than everyone else. One neighbor bluntly stated to the Daily Mail, They're not even the proper Royal family, highlighting the tension that has been brewing.
Laneway at the Heart of the Conflict
The primary source of contention revolves around a concrete laneway known as Mill Lane, which runs through the Matthews' expansive estate. In 2022, the family moved into their $27.8-million, 32-bedroom mansion, Barton Court, formerly owned by designer Sir Terence Conran. Shortly after settling in, they installed electric gates and posted signs reading private and no entry across a section of the lane, asserting it as part of their private driveway.
However, village residents, including a group of 35 walkers, argue that Mill Lane has historically been a public right of way. Closing it off forces locals to use an alternative road frequented by heavy trucks and delivery vehicles, which they describe as extremely dangerous. Charles Robins, a 72-year-old neighbor, warned the Daily Mail that it's only a matter of time before there's a serious or fatal accident involving a pedestrian.
Legal Battles and Public Meetings
In 2024, residents applied to West Berkshire Council to officially designate Mill Lane as a public right of way. The Matthewses, through their lawyers, appealed this decision, leading to an ongoing dispute. A public meeting is scheduled for next month to discuss the issue, with the council expected to adopt a neutral stance, according to a representative for the couple.
In documents submitted to the council, Matthews described the lane as a surfaced drive with unremarkable views, stretching nearly a kilometer before reaching the gated section. The property remains obscured by trees, ensuring privacy for the family. Despite this, the conflict has deeply divided the village of 2,500 people, with one unnamed villager noting it has become confrontational and unhealthy.
Previous Controversies and Village Sentiment
This is not the first time Middleton and Matthews have faced opposition from their community. In 2023, plans for an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, and changing rooms were challenged by council ecologists over habitat risks, though ultimately approved. More recently, in February, they submitted proposals for additional upgrades, including a greenhouse and stables, which have been paused for archaeological investigation.
Villagers have also logged noise complaints following a 50th birthday celebration for Matthews in September 2025. Moreover, the couple's lack of engagement in village life has further alienated residents, with many feeling they do not integrate into the close-knit community. Daniel Xu, a university lecturer living in Kintbury, acknowledged that while the couple is legally entitled to control their property, if the owner feels generous, then they would let the villagers use it.
The dispute underscores broader tensions between private property rights and public access, with the outcome of the upcoming meeting likely to shape village dynamics for years to come.
