Concerns about long-term van and caravan parking in Glastonbury continue to spark debate as the council works to balance enforcement, community safety, and the needs of those living in vehicles.

Residents have flagged areas such as St John's Car Park, where two vans have reportedly occupied free bays for several months, and Sedgemoor Way on the A39, where multiple vehicles with occupants have also been noted. While parking enforcement officers have issued penalty charge notices (PCNs), some locals feel the measures have been ineffective as the vehicles remain in place.

However, the issue is far from straightforward. Many of those living in vans and caravans do so out of necessity, while others are drawn to Glastonbury's cultural reputation for inclusivity and its history as a place welcoming to alternative lifestyles.

The council acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation, stating: "Where vehicles are contravening parking regulations, penalty charge notices are being issued, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely. If it is clear vehicles are being used as homes, we are guided by principles of reasonableness and proportionality, balancing community concerns with individual needs."

At the same time, tensions remain high. Some residents have expressed concerns over strain on local infrastructure, environmental impacts, and unauthorised encampments, while parts of the travelling community have faced abuse, arson, and vandalism, including incidents targeting caravans on Roman Way.

Efforts to provide a long-term solution were set back earlier this year when plans for a dedicated traveller site at Porchestall Drove were abandoned due to repeated flooding. The site, part of the £23.6 million Glastonbury Town Deal, would have included 21 transit pitches and 19 permanent pitches, offering much-needed accommodation.

Somerset Council is now developing a county-wide traveller accommodation strategy, expected to be published later this year, outlining both permanent and transit sites aimed at addressing the needs of the traveller community while balancing local concerns.

For many in the travelling community, Glastonbury represents more than just a stopping point – it symbolises acceptance and cultural significance. However, balancing the needs of travellers with local infrastructure and planning limitations remains a challenge.

Measures introduced to manage unauthorised encampments in the town have included a public space protection order (PSPO) established in 2022 and physical deterrents such as barriers on Stone Down Lane and double-yellow lines on Wellhouse Lane.

The council's strategy is expected to go before its executive committee later this year, with hopes of identifying sustainable solutions that respect both the traveller community and the concerns of local residents.