Pippa Middleton Faces Backlash for Closing Public Footpath on Estate
Pippa Middleton and her husband, James Matthews, have come under fire from their local community after closing a public footpath on their estate, Barton Court, in the UK. The couple purchased the 145-acre estate in 2022 and soon after installed electric gates and 'no trespassing' signs to block access to the path, citing privacy concerns. This move has sparked controversy, as the path, known as Mill Lane, has been used by locals for decades to safely travel between nearby areas. The Ramblers' Association, a walking charity, along with community members, is challenging the closure, arguing that it forces pedestrians onto a dangerous road without sidewalks. The local council initially sided with the community, but Matthews is contesting this decision, with a planning inspector set to review the case.