Bourton-on-the-Water overtourism hampers NHS home visits

Bourton-on-the-Water, a Cotswolds village famed for its postcard scenery, has seen a surge in visitors that residents say is straining local infrastructure. Heavy traffic from coaches, minibuses and private cars creates congestion from as early as 8 a.m., delaying NHS workers trying to reach vulnerable patients. Nurse Jenny Coaker reported that nurses who normally see ten patients a day are now able to visit only four, leaving people who need wound care, insulin or end‑of‑life pain relief waiting for essential treatment.

The residents’ group Bourton Residents Voice, formed in September, is pressing local authorities to address the overtourism problem. Chair Charlotte Joynes noted that many visitors spend a full day in the village without spending much locally, adding to the strain on services and litter levels. The campaign highlights the broader impact of tourism on community life and health provision in the popular destination.