A Conservative councillor has called on Somerset Council to stop using public money in an attempt to “salvage” the Life Factory project in Glastonbury. The project, which aimed to transform part of the Red Brick Building on Morland Road into a vibrant community events space and office hub, has been marred by financial mismanagement and ultimately failed despite the investment of £2.89 million of taxpayer funds.
Council chief executive Duncan Sharkey issued a formal apology on December 9, acknowledging the mistakes that led to the project’s downfall. In the wake of an audit by Grant Thornton, the council released a ‘lessons learned’ report outlining the errors and recommending safeguards for future projects.
Councillor Susannah Hart, representing one of Glastonbury’s divisions, urged the council during a full meeting on December 17 not to allocate any more town deal or taxpayers’ funds to the Life Factory. She emphasized the need to prioritize paying the £686,000 owed to local contractors and rejected any attempt to acquire the Red Brick Building as part of a salvage effort.
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“The town deal funds were intended by central government to drive long-term economic growth and regeneration – goals the Life Factory has clearly failed to meet,” Hart stated. She warned that further public investment would only exacerbate financial risks for residents, suggesting that private enterprise would be better suited to oversee the site’s future.
The council’s ruling Liberal Democrat administration responded cautiously, highlighting an ongoing police investigation into the project and the need to seek legal advice before making decisions. Deputy leader Liz Leyshon acknowledged the criticisms around delayed payments to contractors but noted the complexities, including safety concerns that required continued spending on the Red Brick Building.
Leyshon also pointed out that the project’s scope was centered on economic development rather than community or housing developments, despite local desires for different outcomes. She reassured that any discussions about the project’s future would respect legal constraints and police procedures.
Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed a preliminary inquiry is underway following the auditor’s report, with their fraud team reviewing documents to determine if criminal investigations are warranted.
Duncan Sharkey reiterated that while the council sympathizes with affected businesses, it lacks legal authority to provide compensation. He also emphasized measures underway to improve financial controls and prevent similar failures, especially in anticipation of future funding such as the ‘pride in place’ grant for Bridgwater.
The Grant Thornton audit findings will be further scrutinized by the council’s audit committee on December 22.