Somerset Police have opened a formal investigation into the troubled Glastonbury regeneration project, centering on the refurbishment of the Red Brick Building on Morland Road. This development, part of the £23.6 million Glastonbury town deal, involves converting the derelict ‘Building C’ into community event spaces, offices, and other facilities.
Funding for the project was paused by Somerset Council in January 2024 amid serious concerns over project management. A critical report by the South West Audit Partnership (SWAP) surfaced in May 2025, highlighting significant failings in financial management and governance.
The Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s fraud team is now reviewing documentation to determine if any criminal activity warrants a formal investigation. The council has indicated no further construction will be approved before the Christmas period pending the outcome.
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Local resident Brenda Orr voiced concerns at a recent audit committee meeting in Taunton, questioning when contractors—reported to have gone unpaid since March 2024—would receive their wages. She also raised the risk of up to £2.4 million in losses should the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) decide that the council failed in its fiduciary responsibilities.
Reports first emerged in May 2024 of unpaid tradespeople involved in the project, escalating tensions and culminating in a poignant disclosure at Somerset Council’s full meeting in March 2025. Health and safety consultant Jonathan Wilkins revealed his wife’s tragic suicide, attributed to the stress caused by the project’s turmoil.
Council deputy leader Liz Leyshon clarified that the council holds no liability for the contractors employed by Red Brick Building Centre Ltd, the entity responsible for remunerating workers. She confirmed a third party has referred the project to police, precluding further comments during the ongoing investigation.
SWAP’s latest report recommends completing an options appraisal to ensure the building remains safe, secure, and watertight before proceeding. It advises a detailed project plan and risk assessment be finalized prior to release of any further funding.
The council emphasizes that no additional statements will be made until the police conclude their inquiry. MHCLG recently extended the town deal funding deadline by 12 months, granting Somerset Council until March 2027 to allocate or return remaining funds.