An iconic factory in Glastonbury, known for its historical significance and links to sporting legends, has been beautifully restored and reopened as a state-of-the-art facility supporting local businesses.
The Baily’s Buildings, situated on Beckery Old Road, once served as one of the town’s main employers before closing in the 1980s. Originally a tannery and manufacturer of gloves and rugs during the 1800s, the site later specialised in producing sporting goods, including boxing gloves worn by famed fighters such as Henry Cooper, Muhammad Ali, and Floyd Patterson.
The Beckery Island Regeneration Trust (BIRT), responsible for the buildings, collaborated with Beard Construction and the Dowlas Property Group over a period of more than three years to refurbish the western building. This redevelopment was made possible through approximately £7 million in central government funding secured via the Glastonbury town deal.
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On Saturday 18 July, the first phase of the redevelopment was officially opened, with initial tenants expected to occupy the new spaces in the coming weeks. More than 100 local residents and dignitaries attended the launch event, where BIRT trustee Ian Tucker, who served on Glastonbury Town Council for 50 years, delivered a speech commemorating the project’s milestone.
Mr Tucker reflected on Glastonbury’s cultural heritage, recalling the inspiration behind the town’s anthem, “Jerusalem,” linked to Sir Hubert Parry and the iconic view from Wearyall Hill alongside the historic factory chimney.
Following performances of “Jerusalem” by the Glastonbury Brass Band and local choirs, the redeveloped building was formally blessed by Reverend Alice Watson from St. John’s Church.
Glastonbury’s mayor, Zoe Prince, praised the regeneration, stating, “This project celebrates both our heritage and our future. I am delighted to see this building given a new lease of life; may it serve our community well for many years to come.”
The two historic buildings are now divided by the newly named Millstream Square, which restricts motorised traffic along the former route of Beckery Old Road.
The regeneration of the western building has introduced four storeys of office and employment space, alongside a secure car park with electric vehicle charging facilities. The refurbishment honours the building’s historic character, preserving original bricks and many windows, while upgrading it with modern heating, air conditioning, high-speed broadband, and full accessibility including a new lift.
Matt Tyler, project manager for Dowlas, expressed enthusiasm for the completed work and noted early tenant interest, with approximately 50 staff already occupying parts of the building. Plans are underway to designate the ground floor for manufacturing use, aiming to reinvigorate industry in Glastonbury.
Construction has proceeded incrementally to enable commercial letting and the reinvestment of rental income into further development. Upcoming phases include additional restrooms, a potential café space, and more flexible offices and work areas.
Mr Tyler emphasised the importance of securing further funding and community support to fully realise the project’s potential as a shared asset benefiting the entire town.
BIRT is also pursuing grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for subsequent development phases, with funding decisions anticipated on 8 August.
Somerset Council deputy leader Liz Leyshon expressed commitment to advancing the project, reflecting on her memories of the site’s industrial heritage. She remarked, “They’ve done a beautiful job; this quality of restoration makes it a better building than it ever was. This is the biggest of the town deal projects, and it’s the one where most people will come in to work.”
As the regeneration continues, the community looks forward to the building’s growing role in Glastonbury’s economic and cultural vibrancy.