THE development of a community health and wellbeing centre in the heart of Glastonbury has taken a huge step forward after £550,000 of funding was secured for the project.

Part of the Glastonbury Town Deal initiative – which aims to develop a range of services and facilities across the town – the project would see the centre created at St Dunstan’s House.

The fresh funding – made up of £500,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), and £50,000 from a local grant-giving trust – means the project has £2.2 million of dedicated funds.

As well as creating new health facilities, the development will restore the historic building and include a new atrium at Glastonbury Town Hall.

It will also offer a range of community activities, classes, and support networks designed to improve the overall health and social cohesion of Glastonbury, including spaces for fitness and rehabilitation, mental health support, and even social events, aimed at reducing isolation and encouraging positive, healthy lifestyles.

A spokesperson for Glastonbury Town Council, which secured the funding, said: “The St Dunstan’s House Community Health and Wellbeing Centre is set to transform the heart of Glastonbury by providing a space that fosters community health, supports mental and physical wellbeing, and offers vital services to local residents.

“The project aims to address the increasing demand for healthcare services, wellness support, and social activities in the region, offering a much-needed hub for all ages and backgrounds.”

The council said the new centre could be welcoming visitors from this summer.

MP Sarah Dyke backed the bid for funding from the MHCLG

MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Glastonbury and Somerton) was among those calling for the MHCLG funding, and wrote to the Secretary of State.

“This additional funding is fantastic news for Glastonbury,” she said. “St Dunstan’s House will become a vital hub, improving health and wellbeing while supporting community groups and local businesses.

“I was pleased to write to the Secretary of State to push for clarity on this funding, and I’m delighted that the Government has now recognised the value of this project and funded the town council’s application.”

Ms Dyke recently visited St Dunstan’s House to see plans for herself and said she “thoroughly enjoyed” seeing the progress that’s been made.

“I commend the team and stakeholders who have worked so hard to bring this project to reality,” she said. “Rural areas like ours need more outreach facilities for communities, careers, skills, and business support.

“This funding is a major step forward in addressing those challenges and helping local people thrive.

“This is a great example of what can be achieved when local councils, partners, and communities work collaboratively.

“I’ll continue to champion funding for vital initiatives like this that make a real difference to people’s lives.”

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