Efforts to establish a new temporary site for Glastonbury’s traveller community may be expedited as local authorities respond to a series of recent caravan fires. Police are currently investigating multiple incidents, including a notable fire near Tesco supermarket on June 13, which led to three arrests.
Councillor Ewan Cameron, representing Glastonbury, highlighted the challenges faced by the ‘non-bricks and mortar’ community during a public meeting. He called for increased resources and support to address these complex issues while urging for calm and collaboration among all community members.
Since March, five caravan arson attacks have been reported around Glastonbury—on Leg of Mutton Road, near Tesco, and Benedict Street. Councillor Cameron emphasized his ongoing communication with police, local councils, businesses, and health services to seek balanced solutions that promote community harmony rather than division.
READ MORE: Somerset’s Strawberry Line Poised to Become Britain’s Favourite Path
READ MORE: Somerset Council Delays Asset Sales to Avoid Appearing Vulnerable to Opportunistic Buyers
Somerset Council plans to submit formal proposals shortly for a ‘meanwhile’ site aimed at providing safe accommodation for the traveller community, enabling other regeneration projects in the town, such as the Beckery area developments, to proceed without delay.
Initial plans for a travellers’ site north of Porchestall Drove, which included 21 temporary and 19 permanent pitches, were withdrawn in early 2024 due to flooding concerns. A proposed solar farm on the same land was also rejected in October 2025. Subsequently, the council acquired a different, undisclosed site in 2024 and commissioned a feasibility study on designated vehicle dweller and transit sites for gypsy, Roma, and traveller communities.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, portfolio holder for communities, environment, and climate change, confirmed that formal plans for the new ‘meanwhile’ site will be submitted within months. She stressed a balanced approach to enforcement, acknowledging the cultural significance of Glastonbury and the pressures caused by increased vehicle dwelling, including concerns about anti-social behaviour, road safety, and local business impacts.
A multi-agency group led by housing services is addressing community safety and welfare needs simultaneously. Support services from public health, housing, and the NHS are actively engaged, and enforcement is paired with supportive outreach to ensure proportionality.
Traffic regulation orders are being considered where congestion threatens business access and road safety. The council remains committed to partnering with local and national businesses to maintain the town’s economy and employment.
Police have made three arrests linked to the June 13 incident on Beckery New Road; two individuals were released on conditional bail, while one remains in custody. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them or reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers.
These coordinated efforts reflect a commitment to reduce harm, enhance safety, and support the diverse communities of Glastonbury during a challenging period.