I have been a resident in Glastonbury for over 8 years altogether and love this creative, eclectic, artistic and free-thinking town. I was inspired to start a petition to stop the negative impact World Heritage Status would have on the unique character of Glastonbury. The process to become a World Heritage site has already begun.

Myself and many other locals and visitors to Glastonbury are deeply concerned about the prospect of turning Glastonbury Abbey and the Tor into a World Heritage Site for a myriad of reasons I will outline. The consultation process for began in Dec 2023 (without the approval from Glastonbury residents.)No impact assessment has been carried out. There has been a lack of accountability and transparency from the Town Council. 

I recently set up a Facebook page entitled 'World Heritage Status for Glastonbury?' to create dialogue and to give a voice to our community members regarding this major development and to discuss the possible impact of this  proposal.There has been a healthy interest in the subject with lots of participation and discussion indicating an increasing concern over this proposal. 

At a recent in-person meeting called to discuss this matter group of 16, including 3 counsellors, the general consensus was strongly opposed. 

The majority fear that it would be detrimental in so many ways in the long term to our beloved Glastonbury and have said they would move away if W. H. S was fully implemented. UNESCO themselves have recognised that over-tourism can present difficulties and challenges. Research studies into Heritage Tourism have been carried out to suggest a decrease in wellbeing of local residents whilst there could be a boost to the local economy financially as the infrastructure is developed. 

There is nowhere like Glastonbury.You can walk down the High St and experience an alternative, festival atmosphere with tarot readers, musicians, dancers and chalk artists. The town is more than just a small Somerset town, it is vibrant, warm, friendly, accepting and over-flowing with creativity. Music and poetry events are commonplace. There exists  a wonderful atmosphere of acceptance and non-judgement

The impact socially, spiritually and environmentally of gaining World Heritage Status could be devastating , as we have witnessed in other places that have undergone World Heritage Status. (Venice, Machu Pichu, Bath). 

Back in December 2023 as mentioned two Consultants from UNESCO were hired by the Council to start the first stage of implementing World Heritage Status. The Mayor stated they have received £15,000 to date  and a further £15,000 is to be awarded imminantly. The total minimum cost to implement World Heritage Status altogether would be £127,000 according to one local councillor.

There was no extensive survey or consensus carried out at that time to the local Community. Only a few received a postal survey, just over 6 percent responded. There was mention of it on the party manifesto which people voted on.Many have expressed concerns and would like their voices as residents to be fully heard and acknowledged. Many feel this money could be better spent on improving homelessness and other social problems such as poverty?

In Glastonbury we are presently experiencing a housing, a homeless crisis and food poverty issues. Many feel that commercialisation and further gentrification of the town which World Heritage Status would inevitably bring would not benefit the locals.Who will it benefit? This move seems to be motivated by corporate profit and greed. Much of the UNESCO promotional material speaks of the economic boost it brings, however at what price? 

There would inevitably be an increase of Air BnBs, more pollution, hotel chains, further rising rental costs, pushing many residents who are already struggling out of their town. Increased taxes and business rates would make it hard for local independent businesses to stay afloat. 

The two hired consultants said in a recent presentation held in the Town Hall that they wanted the 'right kind of tourists'. What exactly does that mean? I fear that they want to attract only those with money. Furthermore Lokabandu the local Mayor has voiced the intention to introduce a 'tourist tax' which would make Glastonbury exclusive only to the wealthier tourist.  

Moreover other issues brought to the table by concerned citizens include problematic  parking, mass international over tourism (bringing a high volume of coaches), car parks built, greater taxes, more surveillance, free WiFi (more EMFs), less say and autonomy for local residents.

Furthermore the increase in footfall to our sacred sites would cause greater damage and erosion to them, therefore more maintenance and more expenditure. Is this really what we want? 

There is a fear the town will become overrun (even more than it is presently) with a flux of too many tourists.

The presently thriving High St with its colourful, vibrant, diverse and independent shops and cafes would change irrevocably. We are likely see chains such as Starbucks and McDonald's becoming a common feature to accommodate the type of tourists visiting.This spiritual, left field and alternative town would loose it's unique identity. Visitors would swarm the crowded streets, bringing litter and noise creating an unpleasant environment. Glastonbury is not to be branded and packaged and promoted wordwide as a desirable holiday destination! 

Those who have had the misfortune of living in places that have received World Heritage Status have spoken to me of 'nightmare scenarios' on their doorstep, including excess coaches, overcrowded town centres and parking restrictions to name a few of the issues. 
 
'The Isle of Avalon' has a very magical reputation and is a renowned spiritual centre throughout the world, steeped in ancient history and legend.

Alternative folk come here for Goddess or Shamanic courses, seeking spiritual and soulful experiences. Moreover, Glastonbury  is a place of 'unity through diversity'. There are 80 different faiths here, recently celebrated at a unity event. We would not like to see it homogenised. 

If The Abbey and Tor receives W. H. S they will become increasingly  commercialised. Large visitor centres, walls or restrictions could be built ruining the original character of the beautiful places.The sacred sites are presently looked after by The Abbey Trust and the National Trust who are doing a great job, so why give jurisdiction to UNESCO?  

 There was talk at a recent open discussion held at the Town Hall of extending the W. H.S to include the Avalon Marshes and other local sites of interest which is concerning. 

It's important to act now because the consultancy has already begun (Dec 2023). We need to stop further taxpayers money being spent on a scheme the majority have not given consent to and do not agree with.

We wish to preserve the unique, ethereal beauty, and freedom of expression that presently exists in Glastonbury, not turn it into a 'brand' 'commodity' to be advertised in a glossy brochure. The implementation of W. H. S needs to stop now or the consequences could be diabolical for the residents and visitors of Glastonbury which is so close to so many hearts. 

Please sign and support us, whether you are a local or a visitor to keep beautiful Glastonbury and it's sacred, organic nature as it is, the town we love so much. Thank-you.