Heritage & Character

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what's the plan?

Protecting What Makes Glastonbury Unique

Glastonbury is recognised around the world for its rich history, distinctive character and vibrant cultural life. Its historic buildings, important views, creative community and unique identity all contribute to the special sense of place that residents and visitors value.

What are we trying to do? 

The Neighbourhood Plan seeks to ensure that future development respects and strengthens these qualities. We plan to retain and enhance the unique character, heritage, and cultural identity of Glastonbury.

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St Dunstan's House viewed from Magdalene Street

Why is it important?

Glastonbury’s identity has been shaped over centuries by its history, landscape, architecture, arts, and community traditions.

These qualities:

  • Create a strong sense of place
  • Support tourism and the local economy
  • Contribute to community pride
  • Help make Glastonbury unlike any other town


Future development should complement these characteristics rather than diminish them.

WHAT'S THE FOCUS?

The Plan seeks to:

  • Protect heritage assets and historic buildings
  • Safeguard important views and settings
  • Support conservation of the historic environment
  • Encourage high-quality design that reflects local character
  • Promote public art and creative expression
  • Support cultural activities and community events
  • Encourage development that celebrates Glastonbury’s artistic and cultural identity
  • Support the vision for Beckery as a centre for creativity, culture, and enterprise

 

What would success look like?

A town that continues to evolve while retaining its distinctive identity, where new development contributes positively to Glastonbury’s unique character, culture, and sense of place.

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POLICIES AT A GLANCE

Browse the neighbourhood plan policies as they appear in the summary. 

Policies 6, 7, 8, relating to heritage and character. 
Sunset at Glastonbury Tor

Introduction - What's the Plan?

The Glastonbury Neighbourhood Plan sets out a community-led vision for how the town should grow and develop between now and 2040.

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Environment & Green Spaces

Protecting green spaces, biodiversity, trees, orchards, and wildlife habitats.

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Sustainability & Climate

Supporting renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and encouraging sustainable travel.

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Glastonbury-heritage-market-cross

Heritage & Character

Protecting historic assets, local identity, culture, and creativity.

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Employment & Economy

Supporting local businesses, tourism, enterprise, and town centre vitality. 

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Real estate concept of house search for rent or to buy, resident

Housing

Providing homes that meet local needs whilst supporting sustainable development.

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Have your say

Consultation period for the plan runs from Monday 22nd June to Sunday 5th August 2026.

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