Glastonbury Festival bosses have been told to tighten up controls after a new ecology report raised concerns over dust pollution from construction traffic near a protected stream.

The 2025 Annual Monitoring Report, carried out by consultants Ethos Environmental Planning, flagged minor dust build-up next to Pilton Stream during this year's event — a result of dry ground and heavy vehicle use. While not classed as a serious breach, it's the only blot on an otherwise clean record.

Inspectors praised organisers for following most environmental rules to the letter. Protective fencing was installed around hedgerows, ponds, woodlands and other sensitive habitats, and much of it was clearly signposted to keep people out. Wildlife corridors were shielded with Heras and chestnut paling fencing from set-up through to decommissioning.

The lighting also passed the check. Directional LED and festoon lights were used near bat zones like the old railway line to limit disturbance, and the short-term nature of festival lighting means long-term bat impacts are considered unlikely.

The site's water quality controls were also given the thumbs-up. A separate Rivers and Streams Monitoring Report confirmed the festival met all its pollution targets for 2025, with key habitats like Whitelake River protected throughout.

The annual check is a planning requirement under the festival's approved biodiversity plan, and it will continue each year. The goal is to ensure Glastonbury can operate without damaging the surrounding wildlife — and to force action if problems arise.

While this year's report confirms there were "no significant impacts", campaigners may seize on the dust warning as proof that even the best-run events need tighter scrutiny when it comes to protecting the countryside.

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