Allotment scheme comes into bloom

A £1M programme to improve and increase the numbers of allotments in Kirklees is nearing its end.

Over the last three years, one completely new allotment site has been created, derelict areas on other sites have been cleared, eight derelict sites have been brought back into use and facilities at other existing sites have been improved.

Julian Faulkner, allotment officer for Kirklees Council, which paid for the improvement programme said: “We now have over 1,940 workable plots across Kirklees. We had over 200 plots that we couldn’t let because of their condition, being badly overgrown or covered in dumped materials.”

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As well as creating a new allotment site, derelict sites were cleared and are now deemed fit for letting. Work such as installing security fencing, removing trees that were shading plots and improving water supplies and access roads was carried out on other sites.

In order to make sure the new standards are maintained, Mr Faulkner will be inspecting every allotment site every six weeks. If a plot is found to be uncultivated tenants will be given 28 days to show signs of cultivating the plot or risk losing it.

He says the improvement programme has encouraged more families and younger people who are keen to grow healthy food for themselves and their children come forward.

Mr Faulkner said it was hoped that those new to the allotments and it is hoped training courses will be run to help them on their way. “Also, there is a wealth of knowledge among the older plot holders and they are always more than willing to pass on tips and advice, and even plants to newcomers,” he said.

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The new allotment site was created at Queensway in Kirkburton. Land for other new sites is still being sought, particularly in the Colne Valley where, in Marsden alone, over 50 people have said they would each like an allotment.