Have your say on future of allotment sites in Worcester

Worcester City Council is seeking views from green-fingered residents on the provision and use its allotment service – and how it could be improved in the future.

The Council is looking to make changes after the independent National Allotment Society reviewed the service and made recommendations. 

“Our allotments are an important community asset, and we are fortunate to have many sites across the city. Plot holders tell us how much they enjoy their allotments; they have the opportunity to grow fresh, healthy produce while getting some exercise and making friends,” says Cllr Andy Stafford, Chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee.

“Now is the time to review our allotment service to ensure that it is accessible as possible - and to encourage best environmental practices across all the sites.  If you would like to lease an allotment, are a current plot holder or live near an allotment site, we would like to hear your views.”

The authority is also consulting on proposed changes to the Tenancy Agreement, the relationship with the Allotment Forum and the roles of the Allotment Officer and Site Representatives.  Charges and concessions will also be reviewed – including a proposal to introduce a concessionary rate for tenants on a low income.

Views will be sought on how more active use of plots and best environmental practices at allotment sites can be encouraged – such as reducing water consumption.  The Council is also seeking ways to reduce the time people spend waiting for a plot to become available, and to improve health and safety measures at sites.  

A full-time Allotment Officer is currently being recruited by the City Council to improve the management of the sites and to offer more support.

Have your say by completing the short survey at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/TL3SC3C .  The survey closes on 15 October2021.

You can also speak in person with Council officers at two drop-in sessions in The Guildhall (High Street, Worcester, WR1 2EY) on Monday 27 September from 1.00pm to 4.00pm and Wednesday 29th September from 5.00pm – 7.00pm.

The findings of the survey will be presented to the City Council’s Environment Committee on 2 November 2021 and will help to shape future decisions about the allotment service.