Glastonbury anti-social behaviour concerns raised in Parliament

By Laura Linham 9th Jul 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 hour ago

Glastonbury's anti-social behaviour problems have been raised in Parliament, with Sarah Dyke MP calling for a fresh look at how rural towns are supported.

The Glastonbury and Somerton MP said places such as Glastonbury need a wider response to help keep high streets, schools and public spaces safe. Her comments come as police continue targeted work in the town centre.

Glastonbury town centre is currently listed as a local neighbourhood policing priority. Officers have identified periodic anti-social behaviour issues in and around High Street, Market Place, St Dunstan's Car Park and the Abbey gateway.

The police say they are carrying out targeted work between neighbourhood policing team officers and Haven officers to reduce ASB-related incidents and help keep the town centre safe for residents, businesses and visitors.

That work includes increased foot patrols in hotspot areas, with officers focusing on peak times including after school, early evenings and weekends. Police also plan early engagement with people known for anti-social behaviour, using preventative conversations and signposting where appropriate.

The priority also includes weekly reviews of ASB hotspots, using information from local businesses, CCTV operators and town council partners. Police say partnership work is continuing with Haven, YMCA and outreach partners.

Joint patrols are expected to focus on street-attached individuals, vulnerable people at risk of exploitation, and support needs linked to substance misuse or homelessness. Police say enforcement powers may be used where necessary and proportionate, including Community Protection Warnings, Community Protection Notices and dispersal powers.

In an update published on 14 June, police said proactive and high-visibility patrols had continued across Glastonbury High Street and surrounding areas. Officers said ASB powers had been used where proportionate and necessary to disrupt activity and reassure the community.

Police also said work had continued with partner agencies, including Somerset Council and local support services, to provide a coordinated response. Engagement with local businesses is also continuing, helping officers gather intelligence and support early intervention.

Ms Dyke said there was an "urgent need to review our approach to antisocial behaviour in rural towns like Glastonbury, in order to make our schools, high streets, and towns safe for all."

Police said the combined work was contributing to a sustained reduction in anti-social behaviour in the area, while improving community confidence and supporting a safer environment for residents, visitors and businesses.