Work is underway to redevelop the Baily's buildings in Glastonbury. Picture: Jason Bryant

Work underway to transform landmark Glastonbury factory into hub for businesses and community

Paul JonesSeptember 19, 20250 Comment0

WORK to transform an iconic former factory in Glastonbury into a “vibrant workspace for start-ups, ambitious local businesses and local community use” is underway.

Construction firm Beard has started essential work to redevelop the former Baily’s Tannery and Glove Factory, at Beckery Old Road.

The building is owned by the Beckery Island Regeneration Trust, whose trustees said the start of the work was the culmination of decades of work.

And when complete, they said the transformed buildings would host a “sustainable hub for local start-ups, small and growing businesses, as well as a range of spaces for community use”.

Trust chair, Ian Tucker, said: “This is a positive moment for the Trust and many people who have worked for years to restore the Baily’s Factory.

“We have always said that this project is about so much more than restoring old buildings, as important as that is.

“It’s about bringing them back into meaningful use for the community and businesses of today.

“We are delighted to see the construction work now fully underway and look forward to working with Beard, Dowlas and the whole project team to create a space where our local community and businesses can thrive.”

Baily’s was a major employer in the town until closing in the 1980s. The company initially operated as a tannery, glove and rug manufacturer in the 1800s before specialising in sporting goods – producing items including boxing gloves worn by the likes of Henry Cooper, Muhammad Ali and Floyd Patterson.

Matt Cooper, regional director at Beard, added: “These buildings are such an important part of Glastonbury’s history. It’s a privilege for us to be part of their transformation.

“Our initial focus is on ensuring the structures are safe and sound, laying a strong foundation for what will become a major asset to the community.

“I know how much work has gone into getting the project to this stage. As a business with a track record of supporting similar projects in Somerset, we’re very proud to support the transformation of this iconic space.”

Matt Tyler, director at Dowlas Property Group, which is managing the Baily’s Buildings project, said: “Securing Beard as the main contractor for the Baily’s Buildings restoration marks another major milestone in delivering these long-awaited spaces back to the local community.

“Beard’s expertise in building ambitious spaces, combined with a commitment to environmental responsibility, sustainability and social value, makes them an ideal partner for this landmark project.

“What’s more, their appointment keeps investment within the region, as we continue to assemble a carefully chosen team of contractors and suppliers to bring this long-anticipated redevelopment to life.

“Beard’s focus in the coming months will be on the Baily’s West building, with funding for this phase provided by the Glastonbury Town Deal grant.

“Residents and visitors can expect to see the buildings restored sensitively to their former glory over the next year or so and will see, first hand, true regeneration of an area that has been neglected for decades.

“The work will transform this part of Beckery Island to become a thriving area once again with improved access routes, the creation of sustainable wildlife habitats and, importantly, a revival of the strong sense of community that once existed here.”

This phase of work is supported with funding of £6.3 million from the Glastonbury Town Deal and is expected to be completed some time next year.