Efforts to develop a new ‘meanwhile’ site for Glastonbury’s traveller community may be accelerated following a spate of recent caravan fires in the area. Since March, five arson attacks targeting caravans have been reported around Glastonbury, including incidents on Leg of Mutton Road, near the Tesco supermarket, and on Benedict Street. These events have prompted police investigations and the arrest of three individuals connected to a fire near Tesco on June 13.
Councillor Ewan Cameron, the Liberal Democrat representative for Glastonbury, addressed these concerns during a council meeting via Microsoft Teams. He emphasized the need for increased support and resources to address the complex challenges faced by the ‘non-bricks and mortar’ community. Cameron stressed the importance of a collaborative approach, involving the police, local businesses, NHS, outreach services, and the broader community to avoid exacerbating tensions.
Somerset Council is responding with a multi-agency strategy to balance community safety, enforcement, and welfare needs. Formal plans for the new traveller site, described as a ‘meanwhile’ solution, are expected to be submitted in the coming months. This initiative, part of the £23.6 million Glastonbury town deal, aims to establish a safe, off-road location for traveller communities, facilitating progress on other regional regeneration projects such as the Baily’s Buildings.
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Initial plans to create a site at Porchestall Drove were withdrawn due to flooding concerns, and a subsequent proposal for a solar farm on the same land was refused. Instead, the council acquired a different, undisclosed site in summer 2024. A feasibility study is underway to explore dedicated vehicle dweller and transit sites for Gypsy, Roma, and traveller communities.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities, environment, and climate change, affirmed the council’s commitment to a balanced approach. She highlighted the ongoing multi-agency work addressing community safety, traffic regulation, and social welfare. Enforcement actions are being targeted and proportionate, backed by supportive engagement to ease community tensions.
Police continue their investigations into the June 13 fire incident near Tesco, with two suspects released on bail and a man in his 20s still in custody. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them confidentially.
These developments underscore efforts to improve safety and living conditions for Glastonbury’s traveller communities while supporting broader town centre regeneration and local economic stability.