Public interest in allotments has undergone a recent revival in line with current thinking on healthy eating, organic food and exercise. This has created a greater demand for allotments in some areas, which is critical to protecting them from a change of use in the future as a consequence of disuse or dereliction.
Allotments are uniquely protected through the legislative and planning framework within the wider context of a firm national policy to improve the quality of urban green spaces.
Government has strengthened the policies and protections afforded to allotmentsand in 2002 strengthened the criteria for disposing of statutory allotments and revised planning guidance (PPG17), within the wider context of a firm national policy to improve the quality of urban green spaces.
The planning system through PPG17 (Planning for open space, sport and recreation) and PPS3 (Housing) provides a robust framework for the protection of urban green spaces including allotments and sets out that allotments should not be considered as previously developed land. PPG17 recognises allotments, community gardens and city farms in its typology of open spaces and sets out that Local Authorities should undertake robust assessments of the needs of their local community for open space.
Allotments are further protected by specific legislation and their disposal is governed by a robust consents regime. To dispose of a statutory allotment a local authority musty obtain consent from the Secretary of State under Section 8 of the Allotments Act 1925.
Allotments in Wells
Wells City Council lets 52 allotments at locations within the City. There are 27 behind the Bishop's Palace, 16 at Burcott Road, and 9 at Barnes Close. Some allotments have been split into two. Due to the recent increase in allotment popularity, there is a waiting list.
Allotments are valuable green spaces and community assets that can help improve people's quality of life by promoting healthy food, exercise and community interaction.
They are places which bring all sections of the community together and provide opportunities for people to grow their own produce as part of the long term promotion of sustainability and healthy living.