Work has officially begun to transform Glastonbury's iconic Baily's Factory into a new hub for businesses and the community.

Construction firm Beard has been appointed as the main contractor to deliver the long-awaited regeneration project, which is being overseen by the Beckery Island Regeneration Trust. The buildings, once a major employer in the town, are set to be converted into sustainable workspaces for local start-ups, small businesses and community groups.

Ian Tucker, chair of the Trust, said the project marked a "positive moment" after decades of effort to secure the site's future. "This is about so much more than restoring old buildings," he said. "It's about bringing them back into meaningful use for the community and businesses of today."

Baily's has a rich industrial history, having operated as a tannery, glove and rug manufacturer in the 1800s before turning to sporting goods. Its products included boxing gloves worn by legends Henry Cooper, Muhammad Ali and Floyd Patterson.

Beard's regional director Matt Cooper said: "These buildings are such an important part of Glastonbury's history. Our focus now is on ensuring the structures are safe and sound, laying a strong foundation for what will become a major asset to the community."

The scheme is being supported by Dowlas Property Group, with funding for this phase secured through a £6.3 million grant from the Glastonbury Town Deal. The first stage will focus on Baily's West, with work expected to restore the buildings "sensitively to their former glory" over the next year.

Completion of the first phase is scheduled for 2026, with improvements also set to include new access routes, sustainable wildlife habitats and the revival of a community hub on Beckery Island.

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