Employment & Economy

image of tangram puzzle blocks with people icons over wooden table ,human resources and management concept

what's the plan?

Supporting a Thriving Local Economy

Glastonbury has a diverse and distinctive economy built around independent businesses, tourism, creativity, enterprise, and local services.

The Neighbourhood Plan seeks to support sustainable economic growth whilst maintaining the unique character that makes the town attractive to both residents and visitors.

What are we trying to do? 

To support existing businesses, encourage new enterprises, and strengthen the local economy whilst maintaining the distinctive character of Glastonbury.

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Why is it important?

A strong local economy helps create employment opportunities, supports community wellbeing, and contributes to the long-term sustainability of the town.

Glastonbury’s economy is shaped by:

  • Independent retailers and local businesses
  • Tourism and the visitor economy
  • Creative industries and cultural activity
  • Small and micro-businesses
  • Flexible and home-based working
  • The town centre as a hub for community life

 

Supporting these sectors helps retain local spending, create employment opportunities, and maintain a vibrant and active town centre.

WHAT'S THE FOCUS?

The Plan seeks to:

  • Support local businesses and enterprise
  • Encourage opportunities for small and micro-businesses
  • Protect important employment areas
  • Support flexible workspaces and home working
  • Encourage the reuse of existing buildings
  • Promote brownfield development before greenfield expansion
  • Strengthen the vitality of the town centre
  • Support tourism and visitor facilities
  • Encourage development that contributes positively to the local economy
  • Support Beckery’s role as a centre for culture, creativity and enterprise

 

What would success look like?

A thriving local economy with a vibrant town centre, successful independent businesses, strong employment opportunities, and a visitor economy that benefits both residents and businesses while preserving the town’s unique character.

POLICIES AT A GLANCE

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

Policies 3, 9, 10, 11 relating to employment and economy.
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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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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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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