Somerset Council stands firm on Zig Zag eviction order: What happens if residents refuse to leave?

By Laura Linham 7th Feb 2025

The Zig Zag building in Glastonbury
The Zig Zag building in Glastonbury

Somerset Council has confirmed it will proceed with enforcement action at the Zig Zag site in Glastonbury, despite site owner Chris Black stating he will not make anyone intentionally homeless.

Nearly 20 people are currently living at the former factory site, which the Planning Inspectorate has ruled as "not fit for human habitation". Residents have been ordered to vacate the site and return it to its former condition by the end of March.

Chris Black told the BBC he cannot comply with the order because it is "not achievable and is also not reasonable."

However, Somerset Council has made it clear that it will enforce the ruling, having already won an appeal process.

A council spokesperson stated: "The Planning Inspectorate dismissed two planning enforcement appeals relating to the Zig Zag site in July 2024. The Inspector agreed with the council that the site was not fit for human habitation and upheld the terms of the enforcement notice. Importantly, the Inspector made an award of costs to the council, demonstrating that we are acting reasonably in upholding this notice."

What happens if residents refuse to leave?

If the March deadline passes and residents remain on the site, Somerset Council has several legal options to enforce the eviction. This could include:

  • Court proceedings: The council may seek an injunction ordering the removal of residents.
  • Bailiff enforcement: If an injunction is granted, the council could instruct court bailiffs to remove individuals and clear the site.
  • Direct action: The council has the power to carry out the enforcement itself, returning the site to its former condition and reclaiming the costs from the owner.

Where will the residents go?

The council has acknowledged the wider issue of site provision and says it is working on long-term solutions.

The Enabling Project, part of the Glastonbury Town Deal, aims to develop a site for both temporary and permanent accommodation in consultation with the local community.

In addition, Somerset Council has secured Government funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to conduct a feasibility study on potential sites across the county. The study will assess funding and delivery options for designated spaces for temporary and permanent pitches during 2025/26.

For now, Somerset Council remains clear: the enforcement order stands, and residents must leave by the deadline. What happens next depends on whether those living at Zig Zag comply—or whether legal action follows.

     

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