The visit comes amid criticism aimed at Pippa and her husband, James Matthews, after residents said a footpath across their private estate has been blocked. The couple have lived at the property since 2020; previous owner Sir Terence Conran, who died in 2020, had reportedly allowed villagers to use the route. Critics say the change has deprived the village of a valued walk.
The dispute dates to March 2024, when the estate manager submitted a Highway Declaration Notice to West Berkshire Council. In response, Eugene Futcher of the West Berkshire Ramblers lodged a counter application seeking public right of way status. Matthews attended the first three days of a six-day Planning Inspectorate hearing, which will decide the path's status.