Bourton-on-the-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, has been grappling with a surge in tourist arrivals, which has led to significant challenges, particularly regarding coach parking. Since early 2024, the village has been without a specific area for coaches to park after a private car park ceased permitting coach parking.
In response to this issue, Councillor Paul Hodgkinson of Gloucestershire County Council, Bourton, and Northleach, has announced a breakthrough. A temporary drop-off and pick-up location has been secured away from the village center, while a more permanent solution is being planned near the Cotswold School. The Bourton Parish Council has also shown support for a proposal by Gloucestershire Highways to create a new bay near the industrial estate.
The proposed solution involves coaches dropping off and picking up passengers near the industrial estate and then parking at the Pulhams Coaches site, ensuring that they do not cause traffic congestion or parking issues in the main village area. The pilot scheme, designed by Highways, is set to begin in the spring of 2025 to cover the upcoming tourist season.
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The influx of tourists has been described as an “absolute nightmare” by locals, with complaints of buses parking in various places during the busy summer period in 2024. However, with the anticipated launch of the new scheme for the 2025 season, there is optimism that these frustrations will be alleviated.
Looking ahead, plans are being made to improve parking at The Cotswold School, enhance sports facilities, and establish a permanent coach parking solution.
Councillor Paul expressed hope that the proposed measures would alleviate the issue, provide relief to residents, and offer support to local businesses.