A new initiative to promote peace is gaining traction in Glastonbury, with plans to transform the town into a visible symbol of unity amidst growing global tensions.

The proposal, presented at this month's Glastonbury Town Council meeting, aims to display peace flags and community-designed slogans promoting harmony across the town, inspired by Glastonbury's historical connection to peace movements.

Resident Carol Shepherd introduced the idea, suggesting that the town's spiritual heritage and reputation could be channelled into a visible and community-led peace project. "Glastonbury is known around the world for its spirit of harmony and open-mindedness," she told council members. "This initiative could harness that spirit to encourage both residents and visitors to focus on peace, rather than conflict."

The proposed initiative would see peace flags displayed at key sites in Glastonbury, including council buildings, with local residents invited to create their own designs. Ms Shepherd presented some sample flags to the council, including ones featuring slogans such as "Heart of Peace" – an idea, she suggested, that could resonate globally, given Glastonbury's role as a spiritual hub often called the "heart chakra" of the world.

In addition to flags, the project hopes to involve local artists and schools, envisioning a range of peace-themed art, slogans, and symbols appearing across town. With this grassroots approach, she hopes to build a positive, unifying force, with Glastonbury setting an example for other communities worldwide.

Councillors responded warmly to the initiative, with Mayor Lokabee Lokabandhu highlighting the global relevance of promoting peaceful values. "We have a unique energy here in Glastonbury. A peace project could harness that to encourage positive change," he said.

Acknowledging current funding challenges, the council noted that while direct financial support may be limited, they could help publicise the initiative and encourage community involvement. Shepherd, however, emphasised that the project could be advanced through community collaboration and creativity without substantial financial backing.

With the council's endorsement, Shepherd and fellow supporters of the project hope that Glastonbury's peace initiative will inspire both residents and visitors to embrace a message of unity – and perhaps even spark similar campaigns in other towns across the UK.