This ambitious project will see the two historic Baily’s Buildings restored to their former glory and brought back into use, not only as a reminder of Glastonbury’s past, but also as a vision for its future.

The buildings are set to be completely renovated, to the highest sustainability standards possible. The beautiful Victorian façades will house offices, workshops and co-working areas for local businesses, and provide start-up, small and growing businesses with affordable spaces in which to thrive.

The regenerated buildings will enable hybrid working, with shared spaces that allow for interaction and collaboration. There will also be a small museum celebrating the town’s industrial heritage.

Powered by locally sourced renewable energy, this new and vibrant business quarter will support local businesses, deliver new employment opportunities and generate economic growth.

Click here to view the planning application details and documents.

Project FAQs

Will the chimney remain?
The iconic chimney, which has been a Beckery landmark for many years, will be staying. The buildings are Grade II listed and this includes the chimney. In the last five years, the Beckery Island Regeneration Trust (which owns the building) has had the chimney repointed and foliage which was growing out of the top removed.

What is the cost of the renovation?
The latest estimates are that the total cost of the renovation project will be in excess of £8.5m. However, once we have the detailed technical drawings, we can market-test the works to get more detailed costs.

Is match funding required?
Yes. We will be preparing an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund which will hopefully meet any additional costs. Other potential funders are also being explored.

Is planning consent in place?
A full planning application has been submitted and it is hoped this will be considered by the Planning Authority very soon. Once approved, we will also need to apply for a bat licence which recognises the importance of having appropriate measures in place to accommodate these protected creatures.

When do you hope to start work on the restoration?
Over the next 12 months, we will be developing the detailed drawings and schedule of works. Renovation works to the buildings are expected to start in early 2024. A perimeter fence will be erected around the buildings during the summer of 2023. Work will commence around the same time on the creation of a car park and installation of a multi-user path.

What is the intended use of the buildings once the renovation works are complete?
The complex will be redeveloped for commercial use such as offices, workshops, studios and small workspaces for new and existing businesses. We aim to attract creative, manufacturing and green businesses. There will also be spaces for educational activities and learning. A small café will service the needs of the people who work and visit, and a small museum will celebrate the town’s industrial heritage.

What about sustainability?
As part of the Town Deal, we will have access to funding from the Robert Richards Initiative to develop innovative sustainability solutions. We aim to reduce energy demand, increase energy efficiency and use green power. Exact plans are to be confirmed and are likely to include improving and insulating the buildings, and generating our own electricity – perhaps from air and ground source heat pumps, solar panels, a biomass boiler and it may be possible to generate electricity from the Mill Stream.

When were the buildings last used?
The buildings ceased to operate as a tannery and sheepskin manufacturing site in the 1980s. There are many people who were associated with the Baily’s Factory that still live in the area and it is evident that there is an enormous amount of love for these buildings and a desire to see them being used again.