Bibury's River Coln to get fences to protect wildlife

Fences are slated for installation in Bibury, a village celebrated as the most beautiful globally, to deter hundreds of tourists from entering the River Coln. The village, home to approximately 600 residents, experiences a daily influx of up to 20,000 visitors, which has negatively impacted the river's wildlife.

Craig Chapman, chair of Bibury Parish Council, stated that the decision for fencing is a necessary but regrettable measure to safeguard swans, ducks, voles, and fish. He noted that during warmer periods, tourists engaged in detrimental activities like sitting in the river, walking in it, and even setting up furniture, significantly harming the ecosystem.

This initiative follows Bibury's 2025 recognition by Forbes Magazine. The parish council has approved the fencing, pending funding approval. Victoria Summerley, a local resident, highlighted the worsening situation since Covid-19, citing excessive litter such as bottles and coffee cups in the River Coln, which is a vital trout stream.

Concerns have also been raised by the tourism sector. Jason Edwards of the Coach Tourism Association expressed worries that further restrictions could deter coach companies, labeling Bibury a potential 'red flag'. He emphasized that coach tourists are generally respectful visitors who contribute to the local economy, and they wish to be welcomed.

Earlier measures in March 2025, including a coach drop-off point introduced by Gloucestershire County Council, aimed to ease traffic but have seen mixed results, with some coaches reportedly not utilizing the designated areas and stopping elsewhere.