How long did you wait for an allotment

ninky_2

I joined the waiting list for my local allottment in October 2004. They told me I'd be waiting 1-2 years. I'm still waiting. I'm now 12th on the list but fear this is only because others have moved / died whilst waiting and not because plots are coming free.

I'd really LOVE to grow some veg but live in a 1 bed flat with no garden. Just wondering how long others have had to wait and how long their local lists are.

katskorner

I was very lucky - I got mine four years ago this coming winter and got it straight away. Our waiting list is now full though even though some plots still don't look to be cultivated. I think it varies from area to area.

ninky_2

Lucky you indeed! It's been so long now I'm wondering if I could set up a vegetable patch in the loft......

RAS

Have you checked if there is any sort of local garden sharing scheme - you get garden space and the owner gets free maintenance?

And chase the allotment person and the council.

oliveoyl

I was told there were 10 people on the list in front of me, so I should expect to wait for a year, but was offered one after just 2 weeks (am currently waiting for the paperwork to be finalised).

I agree, keep ringing them... that's far too long to wait. If you can prove there's significant unmet demand, then I think they have to provide you with a plot... I'll find you a link.

Edit: Have a read of this and the links http://www.allotments-uk.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=6523

Lotus-eater

Try saying you would be happy with half a plot and sharing it with someone. Also let them know that you would be willing to take on an overgrown plot. I have heard saying those things can help can help

Don't annoy them, but let them know you are keen.

Yategirl

I went on the waiting list oct 2003... am still waiting... we don't have alloments in my area so am on the list at a neighbouring parish.. because I don't reside in that parish, anyone who does is automatically in front of me on the list. The committee are very "up" on making sure plots are worked.. there are no unworked/overgrown plots.

My council are 'looking' for land... I have been on that list with at least 30 others for at least 3 years (if not longer)...

ninky_2

oliveoyl wrote: »

I was told there were 10 people on the list in front of me, so I should expect to wait for a year, but was offered one after just 2 weeks (am currently waiting for the paperwork to be finalised).

I agree, keep ringing them... that's far too long to wait. If you can prove there's significant unmet demand, then I think they have to provide you with a plot... I'll find you a link.

Edit: Have a read of this and the links http://www.allotments-uk.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=6523

thanks, alas, i note it says london is exempt. i have phoned the allotment officer several times. there are 22 plots and they say that maybe one or two become available a year. i live in london in an area where there a lots of houses with lots of flats so lots of demand. although probably a lot of people with gardens want an allotment too. i've signed up for the share a plot thingy. at this rate the only allotment i'll be getting will be six foot long....

ninky_2

Lotus-eater wrote: »

Try saying you would be happy with half a plot and sharing it with someone. Also let them know that you would be willing to take on an overgrown plot. I have heard saying those things can help can help

Don't annoy them, but let them know you are keen.

surely no matter how keen you are it is done on a first come first served basis...i hope so anyway. i'd be furious if someone else got ahead in the queue just cos they got pally pally with the allotment officer.

oliveoyl

Have you signed up to the landshare scheme (or is that what you mean by share a plot thing)? There's a thread on here somewhere.

ninky_2

oliveoyl wrote: »

Have you signed up to the landshare scheme (or is that what you mean by share a plot thing)? There's a thread on here somewhere.

yes, did it today...will keep fingers crossed.