Glastonbury, known for its vibrant culture and historical charm, is facing mounting tensions surrounding its substantial van-dwelling community. Longstanding residents living in vehicles argue that discrimination, unsafe living conditions, and neglect from local authorities have reached critical levels.
At a July town council meeting, Deejay McCloud, a spokesperson for the van-dwelling population, accused Glastonbury councillors of fostering anti-traveller sentiment and violating their legal obligations. He highlighted a recent councillor’s statement on national television declaring caravan dwellers unwelcome in the town, claiming it breaches both the Equality Act and the Human Rights Act.
“Many occupants have Roma and Gypsy heritage and are legally protected,” Deejay explained. “This issue extends beyond housing—it’s about fundamental human rights. The continuous cycle of evictions and relocations only creates the appearance of increasing numbers, while in reality, people are simply being displaced.”
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The dispute unfolds against a backdrop of an ongoing housing crisis and a dire shortage of authorized accommodation for vehicle dwellers. A Somerset Council report estimates roughly 300 individuals live in unauthorized roadside encampments around Glastonbury — the highest concentration found anywhere in the UK.
Deejay shared that frequent evictions have incited hateful online harassment, leaving many residents fearful for their safety. “It’s no longer safe to live roadside in Glastonbury,” he warned, urging for negotiated agreements that would allow these communities to occupy safe land without intimidation.
A promising solution—a regulated site with permanent pitches—was outlined in the Glastonbury Town Deal. However, progress remains slow. An initial planning application was withdrawn early in 2024 due to flooding concerns. Subsequently, a new site was purchased later that year, with plans to complete the scheme by March 2026.
Addressing misconceptions, Deejay stressed that roadside communities are ready to contribute financially for services if provided. “We’re utilizing legal frameworks established during the 1970s housing crisis to self-accommodate and have consistently sought constructive dialogue with authorities.”
While relationships with Somerset Council and local police have somewhat improved, Deejay criticized the town council for perpetuating what he called “medieval prejudice” and neglecting their planning responsibilities. “Glastonbury Town Council claims that we do not have rights under Article 8 of the Human Rights Act,” he stated. “Yet, caravans and trailers are homes. Article 8 guarantees respect for private life and one’s home—this absolutely applies here.”
Referencing the Planning and Housing Act 2016, he emphasized the council’s statutory duty to address traveller accommodation needs, which he argues remains unfulfilled.
Councillor Steve Henderson acknowledged the complexity of the issue and suggested collaboration with Bristol City Council, currently revising its traveller policies. “Deejay regularly meets with us,” said Cllr Henderson. “This challenge isn’t going away. Working with Bristol might offer new solutions.”