My local authority has been changing its policy as things have progressed.
Initially it closed all allotments. But then took a more sensible approach and changed policy. Allotment visits are permitted provided plot holders keep well apart. There is a strict recommendation to use hand sanitizer before and after passing through gates. All allotment shops are closed. This strikes me as a good balance. Healthy exercise and fresh air for many of us retirees, with minimal risk of spreading the virus.
But there is no total ban on driving to the allotment. So why not check out the advice in your locality? Driving a long distance to take exercise is being strongly discouraged, but a ten or fifteen minute trip to a supermarket or pharmacy seems acceptable.
A short drive if your allotment is fairly local would seem to be within recommendations. Worth checking.
Cheers.
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I found this on the National Allotment Society website the other day:-
Driving to the plot, we are aware that in recent days there has been conflicting statements from police forces about driving to your plot. A briefing has now been issued from the College of Policing and the National Police Chief’s Council that advises forces to :-
Use your judgement and common sense; for example, people will want to exercise locally and may need to travel to do so, we don’t want the public sanctioned for travelling a reasonable distance to exercise. ………………….. We should reserve enforcement only for individuals who have not responded to Engage, Explain, and Encourage, where public health is at risk.
If you need to drive a reasonable distance to get to your plot then this guidance would suggest that it is permissible to do so. However, please walk to the plot if at all possible
Any plot-holder who is self isolating because a household member is ill with corona-virus should not be visiting the site.
Members should take the following precautionary measures :
• Keep hand sanitiser in your shed and wash your hands regularly
• Use hand sanitiser before opening and after closing any gate locks
• Wash hands when you get home
• DO NOT gather together for a chat even if you are 2 metres apart CLICK HERE for guidance
• Observe “Social Distancing” with each other 2-3 metres
• If you take your children to the plot, ensure that they stay within its confines and do not run around on communal paths and spaces.
• Do not share tools
• Minimise the contact with each other for example no handshakes
• Do not wash your hands in water troughs
• We recommend that all communal facilities are closed
I have printed out a copy of that and will carry it with me when I go to the plot later this week. My plot is just over 2miles from home and too far to walk for me with a bit of osteoarthritis in my knee.