Glastonbury councillor calls for 'zero tolerance' approach to anti-social behaviour

A Glastonbury councillor has called for a tougher stance on anti-social behaviour in the town, suggesting measures including more CCTV and the possible use of private security patrols on the High Street.

Cllr Nick Cottle, who sits on both Glastonbury Town Council and Somerset Council, shared his views in a public social media post, and gave us permission to share it as a Reader's Letter.

He says the situation in the town has become increasingly serious and "simply not acceptable".

"We have had problems for many years, but it appears to have increased hugely in the last few years," he said, pointing to issues such as public drinking, drug use, and disruptive behaviour near the Market Cross and churchyard.

Cllr Cottle said that while addiction and difficult life circumstances may contribute to some of the behaviour seen, it "should not be used as an excuse".

"They should not be drinking in our High Street, should not be doing drugs anywhere, and they should certainly not be in our High Street under the influence of alcohol and drugs — and to be honest, smelling to high heaven," he said.

He also raised concerns about the impact on young people, visitors and local businesses.

"What sort of impression does this give to the children and young people of our town? It is certainly not a good impression," he said. "Our High Street depends on tourists for their livelihoods and should be supported as best we can — it is our lifeblood."

He added that while Glastonbury has some "very talented buskers", others were "plainly awful" and made it harder for traders and shoppers to enjoy the town centre.

Cllr Cottle also commented on the recent closure of St John's Churchyard, which was temporarily shut after repeated incidents of anti-social behaviour and damage. He described the disrespect shown to those buried there, and to volunteers who look after the grounds, as "a real concern".

He said enforcement must be taken seriously, and called for "zero tolerance" not just of anti-social behaviour, but also issues such as littering and dog fouling.

"If the police are not up for the job, should the town council install more CCTV? Should we employ private security to patrol the High Street?" he asked, inviting residents to share their views and solutions.

"I am open to hearing any legal ideas for enforcement," he added. "Lots of you have complained about anti-social behaviour — well, here's your chance to get someone who has an interest to listen to your ideas and take them forward on your behalf."

Glastonbury Town Council has previously acknowledged concerns about safety and anti-social behaviour in the town centre and is currently reviewing options to improve public spaces and support enforcement.

You can read Councillor Cottle's full post here.