The Glastonbury town deal board has extended their condolences to Jonathan Wilkins, a local businessman, after the tragic loss of his wife. Wilkins, who has been involved in one of the town’s regeneration projects, revealed at a Somerset Council meeting that his wife of 35 years took her own life on March 21, attributing the stress from the troubled project as a contributing factor. The board, responsible for the town’s regeneration efforts, has formally expressed their sympathy towards Wilkins and his family.
Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, chair of the board, conveyed the board’s deep condolences, acknowledging the challenges faced by contractors working on the Red Brick Building project and the repercussions of delayed payments. The board has been urging for a prompt resolution to the financial issues and expressed support for the ongoing forensic audit commissioned by the Somerset Council. The delayed audit report is anticipated to be addressed by the council’s audit committee upon its release.
Sedgmore emphasized the board’s commitment to provide assistance to the Red Brick Building project in enhancing its governance and leadership capabilities. The board continues to work closely with Somerset Council, underscoring the urgency of implementing the audit’s recommendations without further delay.
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The board reiterated their condolences to Mr. Wilkins and his family, expressing anticipation for the completion and public release of the audit’s findings. Additionally, updates were provided on the progress of the other Glastonbury town deal projects, with three expected to conclude by year-end and the remainder by the funding deadline of March 2026.