Community Review

Glastonbury Town Council is proud to present the findings of the 2024 Glastonbury Community Review and announce the adoption of a new Community Action Plan that will shape our priorities and decision-making in the years to come.

This in-depth review, carried out in collaboration with the Community Council for Somerset (CCS), gathered responses from nearly 500 residents and visitors. Over nine months, local councillors, volunteers, and CCS experts worked together to design, promote, and deliver one of the most comprehensive community consultations in Glastonbury’s recent history.

Why This Matters

The Community Review is more than a survey—it is a vital listening exercise. It gives residents the chance to speak honestly about what matters to them, what concerns they have, and what changes they would like to see. The resulting data doesn’t just sit on a shelf—it directly informs the Community Action Plan, which will guide both the Town Council’s strategic priorities and help community groups and organisations across Glastonbury secure funding and deliver change.

What We Heard

Some of the most important themes to emerge from the review include:

Community Priorities: Safety, housing, and inclusion were at the top of people’s concerns. Respondents called for more community cohesion, stronger neighbourhood support, and a town that feels safe for all ages.

Housing Needs: A significant number of respondents said their current housing is unsuitable or unaffordable. There was strong support for more affordable housing, particularly 1–2 bedroom and starter homes, as well as eco-friendly designs, better use of brownfield sites, and protections for green space.

Health and Wellbeing: While most rated their health positively, many highlighted barriers to accessing support, such as transport and poor information availability. Better public transport and more community-based activities were seen as vital to improving wellbeing.

Young People & Children: Respondents identified a lack of accessible facilities and activities for young people. Top suggestions included a cinema/theatre, woodland adventure play, sports areas, and clubs tailored to different age groups.

Environment and Climate: There was strong support for more tree planting, improved footpaths and cycleways, and the creation of wildlife corridors. Many residents want to do more for the environment but feel limited by cost or lack of infrastructure.

Transport and Accessibility: Poor road conditions and a lack of public transport were common concerns. There was enthusiasm for improving local bus services and for considering pedestrianisation of parts of the High Street to increase safety and footfall.

Tourism & Heritage: Most residents recognised the benefits of tourism but raised concerns about parking, overcrowding, and the need to protect local character. Glastonbury’s historic sites and events, such as the Tor, Abbey, Frost Fayre, and Carnival, were highly valued.

From Listening to Action

Using the survey findings, the Community Action Plan identifies achievable goals across key areas—such as housing, youth engagement, green space development, transport, and communication. Actions will be pursued by the Town Council in partnership with community groups, charities, businesses, and other local stakeholders.

The data from the review will also provide strong, credible evidence for funding bids, supporting projects that reflect the real needs and aspirations of Glastonbury’s people.