The pressure on plots: APSE on BBC Breakfast

On 25 April, findings from APSE’s latest State of the Market on Allotments were cited on a news item for BBC Breakfast. Filmed on location at an allotment site in Derby, BBC journalist Nina Warhurst looked at the pressure on allotment plots across the UK. 

During the pandemic, local greenspaces become sanctuaries for tens of millions across the UK. As lockdown restrictions took their toll, interest in gardening and growing our own fruit and vegetables increased significantly, reflected by the fact that 94% of local councils surveyed by APSE reported an increase in demand for allotments in 2021. Local people made good use of the benefits of allotments as places to meet in the open air, enjoy the exercise of gardening and build friendships within the community in what felt like a safe-space during lockdown.
 
APSE’s survey also found 37% of councils reported they have over 1000 people on waiting lists for allotments. As a result of these waiting lists, over a third of councils are looking to increase the number of allotments that they provide and almost 60% of respondents now include the provision of allotments in their health and wellbeing and food growing strategies.
 
"As the cost of living crisis squeezes household budgets and drives up food insecurity, councils can expect interest in allotments to remain sky-high. From encouraging sustainable food production to boosting biodiversity, from fostering healthier lifestyles to bringing communities together, the need for high-quality and plentiful allotments has never been greater." Paul O'Brien, APSE Chief Executive.

For a better understanding of the state of UK local authority allotment provision - waiting lists, budgets, facilities - please download APSE’s latest State of the Market on Allotments from our website: https://lnkd.in/eQ3cDmZM

Alternatively, contact APSE Principal Advisor Wayne Priestley on [email protected].

Become an expert in allotment management
APSE also delivers training for local authorities on the management of allotments. Our online course will provide you with an understanding of legal and statutory responsibilities alongside practical advice and guidance on what is required from:

• Local authorities
• Allotment associations with devolved management responsibilities
• Allotment holders

Click on the link below to book your place: https://lnkd.in/ef76wa28

APSE Training can also deliver this as an in-house course. For more information, please contact Head of APSE Training Fiona Sutton-Wilson on [email protected], or Senior Training Officer, Amy Caldow, on [email protected]