Work to turn a derelict former factory in Glastonbury into a vibrant space for small businesses and the community is under way.
South West construction firm Beard has started to transform the Grade II Listed Baily's buildings, which are owned by The Beckery Island Regeneration Trust.
Planning consent for the redevelopment of the old tannery and glove factory, including its famous chimney, was secured in April last year.
The first phase of work is being supported with funding of £6.3m from the Glastonbury Town Deal and is expected to be completed next year.
Trust chairman 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 under way 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.”
The buildings, which closed in the 1980s and fell into disrepair, operated as a tannery, glove and rug manufacturer in the 1800s before specialising in sporting goods.
Famous boxers such as Henry Cooper, Muhammad Ali and Floyd Patterson are all known to have worn Baily’s boxing gloves, with both Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) and Henry Cooper wearing them during their famous fight in 1963.
Beard’s regional director Matt Cooper said: “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.”
Beard’s focus in the coming months will be on the Baily’s West building, which are set to be restored over the next year.
Matt Tyler, director at Dowlas Property Group, which is managing the Baily’s Buildings project, added: “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."
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