Non-Principal Settlement National Landscape

Bibury

Famous for Arlington Row - one of the most photographed villages in England. No new allocations proposed.

38 homes proposed by 2043 Respond by 2 January 2026

190

Current homes

38

Additional by 2043

20%

Growth

0

New allocation

What This Means

Bibury would see 20% growth (38 homes) but with no new allocations. All growth would come from existing permissions and windfalls.

Given the village's extreme heritage and tourism sensitivity (Arlington Row, the Cotswold trout farm, historic church), this approach appears to recognise Bibury's unique character.

Key Issues

  • Arlington Row: One of the most iconic sites in England - any development must protect its setting
  • Tourism pressure: Very high visitor numbers impact village life
  • National Landscape: Entirely within the protected area
  • No Neighbourhood Plan: The community has no formal mechanism to guide development

CDC's Own Evidence

The Council's own evidence base confirms why Bibury has no new allocations.

National Landscape - Highest Protection

Bibury is entirely within the Cotswolds National Landscape - the highest level of landscape protection in England.

The IIA confirms that developing within the National Landscape "breaks planning law". The zero allocation for Bibury reflects this constraint.

Unique Heritage Sensitivity

Bibury's iconic status - with Arlington Row being one of the most photographed scenes in England - creates exceptional sensitivity beyond even other National Landscape villages.

  • Zero new allocations respects this sensitivity
  • Growth limited to windfalls only (small sites/conversions)

How to use this evidence

When responding to the consultation, you can support the zero allocation approach by citing the National Landscape protection and Bibury's exceptional heritage status. You may also compare this approach to other National Landscape villages that have received new allocations.

Have Your Say

The consultation closes 2 January 2026.

Online: Consultation Portal | Email: local.plan@cotswold.gov.uk (CC: planning@cotswold.gov.uk)

How to Respond Effectively

Last updated: December 2025. For definitive information, refer to official consultation documents.

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