Bibury Traffic Management Plan

5 November 2025

Help shape a safer Bibury - have your say on plans to improve road safety

Gloucestershire County Council is inviting people to share their views on proposals to improve road safety in Bibury.

The village is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds National Landscape and a popular destination cared for in part by the National Trust. The plans aim to better manage the high number of visitors drawn to Bibury’s charm, while also enhancing the quality of life for those who live and work in the village.

Residents, businesses and visitors are invited to have their say on a package of measures designed to ease congestion, protect pedestrians and enhance the village’s historic character.

Bibury attracts thousands of visitors each year, but its narrow roads and lack of formal parking controls have led to severe traffic congestion and safety risks. A traffic survey in July recorded over 4,500 vehicle movements across Swan Bridge in a single day.

Changes to coach bays were introduced in a trial scheme in May 2025, which has received positive feedback. The changes were agreed in consultation with a newly-formed group called ‘Bibury One’, made up of representatives from the local community including businesses, parish councillors, coach and tour operators, GCC and Gloucestershire Constabulary.

The county council is now proposing to make these changes permanent, which will create a safer and more attractive public space for the community and tourists. We are also proposing to implement a loading bay and disabled spaces here as a result of feedback received during the trial.

Pay-and-display parking is planned along The Street and near the primary school to manage demand, with exemptions for local residents.

Further measures include extending yellow line restrictions to prevent parking issues being created elsewhere. Public realm improvements, including seating areas and raised kerbing, will help pedestrianise parts of the village centre and improve the character of the village.

To share your view, a survey is being launched on Monday 10 November 2025 and will run until 10am on 3 December 2025. For more information and to take part, go to: Help shape a safer Bibury - have your say on plans to improve road safety | Have Your Say Gloucestershire [this has now closed]

A series of drop-in meetings will also be held for members of the public to attend, starting next week, where council officers will be on hand to discuss the project and provide more information:

  • Wednesday 12 November – Village Hall, Church Road, 2.30pm to 6.30pm
  • Wednesday 19 November – The Swan, The Street, 3pm to 7pm
  • Thursday 27 November – Number 11, The Street, 3pm to 7pm

You can also share your thoughts on the plans by emailing BiburyTRO@gloucestershire.gov.uk

If approved, the proposed measures could be implemented by early summer 2026.

Cllr Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Bibury is one of the Cotswolds’ most iconic destinations, but its popularity has created real challenges for residents and visitors alike. These proposals aim to make the village safer, reduce congestion, and protect its unique character, while supporting a sustainable visitor economy. We want to hear from everyone affected by these changes, so please take part in the consultation and help us deliver a solution that works for the whole community.” 

Please follow link to see maps of proposed changes: Bibury proposed changes

For information regarding the consultation survey please follow this link: Help shape safer Bibury 

Issued by – Communications team, Gloucestershire County Council, 01452 427554, communications@gloucestershire.gov.uk