Glastonbury Town Council Approves Ambitious 2026–27 Budget

The agreed precept totals £1,135,600 for the year. This equates to an increase of around 30 pence per week for a Band D property to an annual cost of £332.31. Importantly, homes in Bands A to C will pay less, and around 75% of Glastonbury households fall within these lower bands, meaning the vast majority of residents will see a smaller increase and overall bill.

Glastonbury Town Council also forecasts to earn £523,955 of income across its activities, subsidising the amount levied on tax payers for the services that they receive. These activities include St. Dunstan’s car park, the Town Hall, St. Dunstan’s House Community Health & Wellbeing Centre, The Glastonbury Information Centre, Tribunal building, the weekly Charter Market, the annual Frost Fayre, Glastonbury in Bloom, and recharging staff time to outside organisations for whom the Town Council does administration and works.

The budget reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to delivering strong public value, maintaining the character of the town, and supporting residents of all ages.

Investing in Community, Culture and Events

Glastonbury Town Council is strengthening its support for the town’s cultural life with a new recurring £5,000 annual grant to the Glastonbury Chilkwell Carnival Committee. As the costs and responsibilities of running large public events continue to rise, this funding will help secure the future of the carnival; a much-loved tradition that brings the community together and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The Council also continues to support key cultural and seasonal events, including Beltane, May Day celebrations and the Samhain Dragons events, along with other community activities. By helping to cover practical costs such as road closures, the Council enables these events to take place safely, accessibly and sustainably, reinforcing Glastonbury’s reputation as a town rich in heritage, creativity and celebration.

Supporting Residents, Visitors and Local Services

The budget maintains the Council’s commitment to the Glastonbury Information Centre, which also hosts the Pilgrim Reception Centre. This shared space provides a vital service for residents while offering a welcoming first point of contact for visitors and pilgrims, supporting tourism and the local economy year-round.

The Council is also securing all four sets of public toilets across the town, recognising them as an essential public service that supports accessibility, public health, residents, visitors and local businesses.

Investing in Young People and Families

Young people remain a priority in the new budget. The Council continues to support two weekly youth clubs, delivered at St Edmund’s Hall and the Festival Hall as part of St Dunstan’s House Community Health & Wellbeing Centre. These sessions provide safe, inclusive spaces where young people can build confidence, social skills and a sense of belonging.

In addition, the Council is committing up to £200,000 in capital investment to improve play equipment across the town, alongside regular maintenance. This significant investment will enhance play spaces for children and families, supporting physical health, wellbeing and outdoor play for years to come.

A Greener, More Welcoming Town

Work to improve and care for Glastonbury’s open spaces continues, helping to protect areas for recreation, relaxation and nature.

The Council also remains proud to support Glastonbury in Bloom, with the town being entered into Britain in Bloom for the second year running. The initiative brings together volunteers, businesses and community groups, boosting civic pride and enhancing the town’s appearance for everyone who lives in or visits Glastonbury.

Transport, Access and a Thriving Town Centre

The budget continues support for the Tor Bus scheme, which helps reduce congestion and parking pressures around the Tor during busy summer months. At the same time, the service provides a valuable bus route around the town, improving access for residents and visitors alike.

The Council also continues to run and expand the weekly Charter Market in the town centre. The market plays an important role in supporting local traders, increasing footfall and keeping the heart of the town vibrant and economically resilient.

Planning for the Future

Glastonbury Town Council is currently in negotiations to purchase the former Beckery Resource Centre, next to the Tor School Pupil Referral Unit. The aim is to bring the site into community use, offering low-cost space for classes, activities and local groups, similar to the successful model at St Edmund’s Hall, creating new opportunities for learning, wellbeing and connection.

Transparency, Accountability and Value for Money

The Council is committed to responsible financial management. Glastonbury Town Council is audited annually, ensuring strong financial controls and good value for money. Full accounts are published on the Council’s website.

To further improve openness, the Council has redesigned the layout of its accounts to make them clearer and more transparent. This has resulted in some changes to how expenditure is presented, helping residents better understand where money is being spent and how decisions support the town.

Download the full agreed budget here.