ROYALS IN SHOCK! Local Neighbors UPSET By Catherine Sister Pippa’s Decision Over Estate Row
In heartbreaking news today, Princess Catherine’s sister, Pippa Middleton, and her billionaire husband, James Matthews, have reportedly earned the ire of their neighbors over a controversial decision. The couple is said to be embroiled in a tense local dispute regarding access to a footpath on their private $29 million estate. The village dispute began after the couple closed off a lane by their West Berkshire country estate.
The path, once accessible under the previous owner, design tycoon Sir Terence Conran, had long been a favored route among local residents. Sir Terence, known for his friendly rapport with the community, permitted those living nearby to use the charming path leading to the mansion’s private drive. However, reports claim that Pippa and James have recently moved to end this access by installing signs that read “Private, No Public Access,” and “No Trespassing.”
Their decision to restrict entry has drawn outrage from some locals, who urged the couple to reconsider. While the footpath is not a public right of way, it was open for general use under Sir Terence Conran, who had no objections to the local traffic on the path. One long-time neighbor expressed disappointment, saying, “I’ve been walking along there for 50 years. When Sir Terence had it, he had no objections; he was very nice, everyone liked him. I think we should have the right to roam.”
Another frustrated villager commented, “It’s a shame—it’s a lovely walk. These people seem to be overly protective of their property. We’re quiet villagers; we don’t have vandalism around here. It feels like Pippa and James are depriving the village of an amenity.”
Conversely, some locals defended the couple’s actions, noting that the pathway was never a public right of way. They pointed out that while the previous owner allowed public access, the Matthews are within their rights to block it. “If it was their house or garden, would they want anyone to walk through it?” one resident questioned.
Pippa Middleton, the younger sister of the Princess of Wales, married hedge fund manager James Matthews—elder brother to *Made in Chelsea* star Spencer Matthews—in 2017. The couple now lives on a 145-acre, 32-room estate in West Berkshire with their three children, Arthur, Grace, and Rose. Recently, they installed signs by a gate on their property to restrict public access to the path.
Back in March, Pippa and James submitted a highway declaration notice to the West Berkshire Council, clearly marking the private territory boundaries. While the decision isn’t yet official, the road is currently off-limits. Their Georgian mansion, purchased in 2021, spans 150 acres and boasts 32 rooms. In 2022, concerns were raised about alterations to the historic property, including a large swimming pool installation and potential disturbances to nearby Middle Stone Age sites. The area is noted for its outstanding natural beauty and proximity to ancient woodlands.
In contrast, her sister, Princess Catherine, and Prince William now live in the modest Adelaide Cottage in Windsor after moving out of their Kensington Palace residence. The Prince and Princess of Wales had lived in Apartment 1 at Kensington Palace for almost a decade, first moving there in October 2013. Formerly the home of Princess Margaret, the grand, four-story apartment had 20 rooms and was centrally located in London’s Kensington district.
Princess Catherine recently shared a glimpse inside their new home at Adelaide Cottage, located on the Windsor Home Park estate in Berkshire. From there, the family can walk to Windsor Castle in about 10 minutes, offering them a simpler, more private lifestyle away from the bustle of London.
