A passionate Glastonbury resident has condemned the neglected state of the land surrounding the town’s historic Red Brick Building, calling on councillors to address the long-standing eyesore once and for all.
At the July meeting of Glastonbury Town Council, Angela Friend recalled the public outrage that erupted after the closure of Morlands in 1982, when the community gathered to debate the town’s future. While she acknowledged positive developments such as the new hotels and business units on parts of the site, she insisted the area immediately around the Red Brick Building remains in an unacceptable condition.
“How much longer must we tolerate the rubbish and disorder around the Red Brick Building?” she demanded. “It is absolutely disgraceful.”
READ MORE: Land for Chard Relief Road Secured in New Housing Development Plans
READ MORE: Residents Return Home as Large Farm Fire Near Claverham Comes Under Control
Friend described the building as partially obscured by overgrown summer foliage but emphasized that its dilapidated state damages Glastonbury’s reputation. “It just needs clearing away. People from Glastonbury and neighboring Street are all asking, ‘What exactly is happening there?’”
In a candid appeal, she urged swift intervention: “My suggestion? Put a flippin’ bomb under it right now.”
Her concerns extended to suspicious activity at a nearby Greek takeaway on Manor House Road. She questioned whether it was still operating and urged the council to investigate the fenced-off area. “Fences are appearing everywhere… It’s about time someone took a closer look,” she said.
This criticism arises amid ongoing uncertainty over the future of a troubled Somerset regeneration initiative. The Red Brick Building, located on Morland Road, has been targeted for refurbishment as part of a £23.6 million Glastonbury Town Deal, including plans to convert the derelict ‘Building C’ into community event spaces and offices.
However, Somerset Council paused funding for the project in January 2024 due to serious management concerns. The South West Audit Partnership (SWAP) delivered a harsh assessment of the project’s oversight in May 2025, after which council chief executive Duncan Sharkey confirmed no further funds would be released.
“We continue to work with the Red Brick Building and the Glastonbury town deal board to consider next steps while additional audit work is ongoing,” Sharkey stated in late May.
Council officials have since announced that all remaining Town Deal projects are expected to finish by March 31, 2026, with the Red Brick Building’s future to be decided independently. A spokesperson explained, “We are conducting a review to confirm project timings and working on an option appraisal for the Life Factory project. No decisions have been made regarding any remaining funding.”
As the clock ticks down on this controversial regeneration effort, residents like Angela Friend continue to demand accountability and visible improvements to restore Glastonbury’s historic landmark and its surrounding area.