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Locals at loggerheads with content creators in scenic Cotswolds village

Bourton-on-the-Water is being overrun by social media tourists, says a district councillor
Bourton-on-the-Water is being overrun by social media tourists, says a district councillor (Getty Images)
  • The picturesque Cotswolds village of Bourton-on-the-Water is reportedly being "ruined" by an influx of social media tourists.
  • District councillor Jon Wareing said that these "TikTok tourists" exploit the village for content, showing little interest in its culture or environment.
  • The surge in visitors has led to increased rubbish, traffic congestion, and instances of verbal abuse towards residents.
  • A motion tabled by Mr Wareing in May 2024, seeking council acknowledgement of tourism as a problem, was rejected by six votes to four.
  • Other Cotswold locations, such as Castle Combe, are also experiencing similar issues with over-tourism and privacy concerns due to content creation.
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