Help needed with a new allotment allocation

StopShopandRoll

Hi, looking for some advice. I got into growing fruit and veg last year and it absolutely saved my sanity I loved it and dare I say, I was pretty good at it. I tried for a local allotment but was told the waiting list was upwards of 10 years. Then we moved to a house with a small courtyard garden that gets no sun at all, ever. Everything died. My friend said she’d happily put her name down on her local list for one (15-20 min drive but different council) which she could also use. A year later a spot have come up - brilliant! Except she’s now temporarily moved out of the area just a few weeks ago and won’t have a new address back under this council for another few months. Our work address is still in the ‘catchment’ though. We’re not sure what to do as We’re due to sign the agreement tomorrow. Would they be likely to let us go ahead with this if her address has changed or would we be bumped to the bottom of the list again?  

twopenny

Tough one. I dare say no one knows except the council. It can be different everywhere and with them being in demand I would expect it to largely depend on how ameniable the person dealing with it is.

I'd go in and show your enthusiasm and worry and explain all including that she will be moving back shortly. Then beg if necessary.

If you've got something in writing from her to say she is only out of the area temporarily and will be using the ground, that you are sharing and going to start with the digging and clearing that might just sway it.

But as she is the applicant (solely?) then they are unlikely to give it to someone who isn't named or in their area.

And if it's only you and you;re not entitled but start on it people will soon get to know. They may have friends who want one and see you as an intruder. You are going to have to tread carefully at first and be super nice. Say you're helping a friend out.