Glastonbury's ambitious Town Deal projects are advancing, with construction well underway at the Sports & Leisure Hub, Glastonbury Abbey, and St Dunstan's House.

Additional progress is evident at Bridie's Farm, and work will soon commence on the largest project, Baily's Buildings.

In September 2022, Glastonbury secured £23.6 million from the Government's Towns Fund to deliver ten transformative projects focusing on regeneration and sustainability. These projects were shaped by community input and aim to revitalise the town centre and enhance local amenities.

One notable project is the Glastonbury Abbey Piazza, which aims to improve visitor experience and connect the site with the town centre. Janet Bell MBE, Glastonbury Abbey Director, highlighted the project's significance: "The Town Deal Project has provided a wonderful opportunity to develop our visitor entrance into one that truly reflects the abbey's historical, archaeological and spiritual significance."

Bridie's Farm: L-R Bon Everson (Project Lead) and Marie-Claire Henon (Project Deputy)

At Bridie's Farm, the Glastonbury Food and Regenerative Farming Centre is making strides. Project Deputy Marie-Claire Henon shared: "Work is well underway to put down the roots of Glastonbury Food and Regenerative Farming Centre. Our dedicated community volunteers have been instrumental in establishing the growing infrastructure."

However, not all projects have progressed smoothly. Rising costs have impacted the Life Factory project at the Red Brick Building on the A39 Street Road. Reports in May indicated unpaid workers, leading Somerset Council and the Red Brick Building directors to pause the project to ensure the remaining funds are spent appropriately. The council confirmed that an independent audit is underway to assess the project's financial management.

This pause reflects broader financial challenges. The Town Deal Board minutes from December 2023 noted a "substantial shortfall in funding" for the projects due to high inflation and other economic pressures. Consequently, the council decided not to progress with the Glastonbury Enterprise and Innovation Hub on Beckery Road, reallocating its funds to support other projects.

Tor Sports and Leisure Hub: L-R Guy Rossiter, Principal Project Manager for Pick Everard, Barry Morgan, General Manager of Tor Sports and Leisure for Fusion Lifestyle.

Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, Chair of the Glastonbury Town Deal Board, remains optimistic: "I want to thank everyone who is giving their time, skills, and support to the delivery and success of all the different projects. They will each bring many benefits to Glastonbury."

Cllr Ros Wyke, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning, and Assets at Somerset Council, acknowledged the challenges but highlighted the progress: "So much work has gone into getting our projects to this stage, and I'm delighted that our residents, visitors, and businesses are starting to see tangible progress."

As the accountable body for the Town Deal, Somerset Council is closely monitoring the projects to ensure proper use and administration of the funds. The Life Factory project, although temporarily paused, continues to seek matched funding and aims to resume work soon.

With all projects set for completion by March 2026, Glastonbury is poised for a significant transformation. For more information about the Town Deal programme, visit Glastonbury Town Deal.