Glastonbury Regeneration Project lands major tenant
New tenant set to boost local employment
A major regeneration project in Glastonbury has secured a key tenant at the historic Baily’s Buildings, promising to create at least 15 new jobs in the area.
Located on Beckery Old Road, the Baily's Buildings were once central to local industry but have been largely unused since the 1980s.
The site is undergoing transformation into commercial units backed by £6.3m in funding from the government-supported Glastonbury town deal.
An unnamed company has committed to occupying 60 per cent of the premises later this year.
The Beckery Island Regeneration Trust, custodians of the derelict grade two listed properties since 2011, plans to revitalise the site with space for businesses, education, and community activities.
Recent construction highlights include a new lift shaft and stair core, restored iron windows, and stabilised roofs, all aimed at modernising the buildings while preserving their historical architecture.
Bat lofts and plantings around the site have enhanced local biodiversity, respecting the project’s environmental goals.
More than 30 tonnes of waste have been diverted from landfill in the ongoing effort to align with net-zero targets.
Ian Tucker, BIRT chairman, noted the importance of securing an anchor tenant ahead of the phase one completion in July.
He emphasised the project’s potential to reconnect Glastonbury with its industrial past and offer employment, education, and community benefits.
The anchor tenant plans to consolidate its existing offices into a company headquarters and training facility, ultimately bringing around 35 jobs to the site and creating additional employment opportunities.
Oversight continues with the construction staged incrementally so that newly completed sections can be marketed effectively, generating revenue that supports further renovations.
Sarah Dyke, MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, expressed satisfaction at seeing the restoration efforts bear fruit and praised the conversion of historical spaces into vibrant community hubs.
The project employs local labour and resources, with £2.2m in contracts awarded within a 30-mile radius, thus minimising emissions while fostering community pride.
Councillor Mike Rigby voiced enthusiasm for the Baily’s Buildings returning to active use, praising the tenants secured.
Additionally, an extra £650,000 has been allocated for sustainable build measures, alongside developing paths linking the project's various sites.
These paths include routes connecting key areas like Benedict Street to Tor Sports & Leisure Centre and St Brigid’s Chapel to Morland Road, enhancing physical links across town.