Allotments 4 All

I just spent my first proper session clearing a small patch. Now I need to know, in order to start a compost heap, should I clear a space and line it with plastic or something or should I just dump all compostable material in a heap and let it get on with it on its own? Will weeds grow up through it or will they be killed off by the composting process?

Are you enclosing the heap with anything, eg a pallet bin etc. It's a good idea to enclose the heap with wood etc to keep heat in.  The more you cover the sides and top the more heat you get which starts the decomposition.  That's why the plastic dalek bins are so popular is that they heat up very quickly so stuff breaks down fast.  Cold heaps take much longer to decompose, and the bigger they are the slower stuff decomposes.  You don't need to cover the base of the heap as you want worms to get up into it  :) 

cheers, the bottom of the heap was the main problem. that solves that one. I will be enclosing the pile, probably with pallets or other scrap bits of wood.

You don't need to leave any gaps. My pallet bin is not doing much and I think it will be better if I block off the sides with plastic or some such thing to keep the heat in.