Glastonbury's tranquil atmosphere has been shattered by a suspected arson attack that left three caravans in ruins, sparking fears of escalating tensions between residents and those living on the town's roads. The dramatic incident, which one witness likened to a 'bomb going off', is the latest in a series of events highlighting the complex relationships within this Somerset town.
Jan Johnston, 71, who has been visiting Glastonbury for nearly five decades, was among those caught up in the chaos. Describing the sound as a 'massive boom' and the sight as 'thick black smoke billowing everywhere', she revealed that the attack had prompted her to reconsider her long-term stay in the area, citing a change in its traditional 'mellow' atmosphere. Another caravan resident, 62-year-old John, expressed concerns that the incident might be deemed a hate crime, were it not for the wind direction on the night of the fire.
The arson attack has brought into sharp focus a growing divide within Glastonbury, where residents and vehicle dwellers once coexisted relatively harmoniously. However, a significant rise in roadside living, coupled with declining community tolerance, appears to be shifting the town's mood. Some house residents, while relieved that no one was injured, suggested the fire might encourage vehicle dwellers to leave, citing concerns over 'trouble-causers' and the tidiness of the area.
The issue has also become a pressing concern for local politicians. Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, has raised the matter in Parliament, linking the rise in vehicle dwelling to a critical shortage of affordable housing and soaring rents in Somerset. A Conservative councillor, Susannah Hart, has called on Somerset Council to declare a 'state of emergency' over the issue, highlighting official figures that show a significant increase in vehicle dwellers from 131 in February to 157 by the end of May.
Avon and Somerset police confirmed that a man in his 40s and a woman in her 20s were arrested on suspicion of arson, arson with intent to endanger life, and assault of an emergency worker. Both have since been released on conditional bail as investigations continue. Efforts to address the problem include a £23.6 million regeneration fund secured by Glastonbury, which includes a project to create a regulated site for roadside dwellers. However, work on this site was halted due to flooding.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing Glastonbury and the need for urgent solutions to address these issues.