What can I do with a concrete base?

[RobC]

At the end of my garden I have a veg plot (approx 25x25ft) next to which I have a concrete base.  The concrete base is approx 15x15ft, has some cracks and holes in it and slopes.  It is in partial shade (a tree overhangs)What can I do with it?

My thoughts so far are

* site a greenhouse - but risk of falling branches etc, and is the concrete base stable enough? 
* dig up the concrete - this is the expensive option eg would have to get someone to do it with a mechanical digger, plus topsoil.  The big unknown is what is underneath.
* build some raised beds, break a few more holes in the concrete for drainage, fill with soil/compost
* sit back, crack open another beer and contemplate the options.

So far I  have gone with the fourth option, but any advice would be welcome.  Especially, how big/deep would a raised bed have to be if it sits on a concrete base?

[RobC]

[bennettsleg]

the beer sounds good...

If the trees are yours, prune a few carefully selected branches and get a greenhouse on the level bit of the site - if there is one. A shed would also fit if you don't have one already.

Have you asked your neighbours what it was used for in the past? Might give you some ideas.

Not sure about putting a raised bed direct onto concrete as any watering could just drain away across the concrete.  Bear in mind that concrete is also full of unhealthy stuff.

[emmy1978]

Beer. Definately don't do anything in a hurry, you may need a few before the answer becomes clear. Shed sounds good, or g/house, but how shaded are they supposed to be? Dunno, as never had one. Enjoy the beer. x

[glow777]

big pots (of plants not beer...then again)

[allaboutliverpool]

Find some old bricks and build a barbeque with a few seats made with bricks and paving slabs. Invite a few friends round, tell them to bring a few beers and treat them to a big stir-fry of fresh produce. Show them what needs weeding and enjoy yourselves.

http://www.allaboutliverpool.com/allaboutallotments1_homepage.html

[Tin Shed]

Have a beer - put up a shed, sit in the shed and have another beer. Sorted!