What is an allotment?

An allotment is a plot of land made available for cultivating purposes, whether that be for growing vegetables or flowers, or keeping chickens . The land is divided up into plots and rented out to individuals who want to grow their produce.

Allotments are usually run by local councils, parish councils, community groups and charities, or are privately run. In our case our allotment is run by the Committee.

Plots are usually full plots of 10 poles (25m x 5m) or half plots of 5 poles 12.5m x 5m). There are 252 plots in total on the Weston Favell Allotments site.

Applying for an Allotment

If you would like to apply for an allotment (whether you are a new plot holder or wish to expand) please email:

westonfavellallotments@gmail.com

Please ensure that you provide:

  • Your full name
  • Address
  • What size plot you would like: Full or Half
  • Telephone Number

The Site Layout

Allotment and Wellbeing

Allotments can provide a safe community space for like-minded people to get together and share ideas, produce, or just have a catch-up.

Of course the produce from your plot can supplement the weekly food shop and provide you and your family with fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables. These are likely to be more delicious and, if grown organically, free from the chemicals found on supermarket produce.

Just being on your plot and chatting to your neighbouring plot holder can bring social benefits including alleviating loneliness .

In addition to looking after their own plots, allotment holders often volunteer by joining the committee, helping to run the various services such as the shop or equipment loan facility, giving up time to help manage and maintain sites of those less able and providing other great opportunities for social interaction.

Maintaining your allotment can help maintain or increase fitness, particularly with the more labour-intensive tasks like digging and weeding! It can help strengthen muscles and improve balance and regularly being outside will top up vitamin D levels, crucial for healthy bones, teeth and muscles.