Allotments are here to stay

There has been some understandable concern recently that allotments might be built on. To be clear, there are no plans to sell off or build on any allotments.

What there has been locally is the Local Plan, which we've written about at length. As part of that process someone has submitted an allotment plot to be looked at for development; the council does have to formally include that in the consultation.

For our part we love allotments and will do whatever we can to support them to grow! Each of us have previously had one or have friends with them and we know how valuable they are. The Hollin Lane allotment sale is something we look forward to every summer.

Here's the official message from the council:

"The council have no plans to build on allotments. The Council recognises allotments as being extremely valuable to individuals and communities across Leeds and they have immense value for health and wellbeing.

 The Council owns a large number of allotment sites and there are no plans to sell any of them for development. Allotments can only be developed if alternative plots are provided elsewhere and if strict legal criteria are met.

 There is an opportunity for people to highlight the value of allotments in the current consultation on the Leeds local plan. It should be noted that the Council are required to consult on any sites suggested for development as part of the local plan preparation, whether they are good development sites or not.

 The Leeds Local Plan is open for feedback until 15 September and can be accessed online by visiting: https://leedslocalplan.commonplace.is/. Comments can also be made on the consultation by sending an email to leedslocalplan@leeds.gov.uk."