ALLOTMENT CRITERIA for you?(posted in the Shed for maximum exposure..)

[Lishka]

Again, thanks so much everyone for your input. I notice that the replies come from a goodly spread of places in the UK - and that the 'bukkit-and-chuckit'method of adding uric acid to the compost heap finds universal favour too

Firstly I'd like specifically to address the comment which Winecap made re: my obvious lack of enthusiasm for this proposed use of a volunteer group, following their own agenda, to take over the derelict plots and turn them into a Community Garden. It's true, absolutely true, for this area. My aim is to demonstrate to the Landlords how these few (10-12 max) neglected plots can be returned to those on the allotments waiting lists with minimum spend . I'd like also to suggest to them that they might provide a 6x4 shed for each plot as it becomes let-able for the tenants individual use for tool storage (and, of course, The Bukkit). But for the volunteer group, with added Corporate funding from Kraft, I've a much more ambitious idea - that of being 'gifted' by B'ham City Council, a portion of Bournville Park for the very purpose of turning it into a Community Garden. The Volunteer Group have the expertise and track record in this work, the land is adjacent to both an Infants and Junior School, Cubs/Scouts/Brownies/Girl Guides groups. elderly peeps,handicapped (various) groups etc. etc. and is on a bus route for easy access to all. And there's water from whatever the river is called which runs through it (Rea, something like that?) I've already identified the local Councillors/Alderman who might well be enthusiastic to champion this also and push for the ground being released......

But back to our forgotten allotments.Under all the brambles etc. the ground is sound, apart from a patch infected by Japanese Knotweed now in its 2nd year of systemic spraying - historically it was always used as allotments until these fell out of favour 15-20 years ago when young new tenants preferred to buy their greens from a shop rather than grow them, and the rent still paid by a friend who has 2 adjoining allotments there bears witness. = still £1 per year!

You've all certainly given me enough to present to the Estates Dept. early next week and I'll let you know how it goes.

Again, many thanks,

Lish       

[Lishka]