A positive response to plot size adjustments amid acute demand for allotments, new APSE survey reveals

A new national survey has revealed how local councils are successfully adapting to the intense and sustained demand for allotments by creating smaller and more manageable plots, whilst embedding biodiversity and accessibility into their services.

The ‘State of the Market 2025’ report from APSE found that 76% of local authorities have now reduced the size of standard plots to create smaller options, a 12% increase since 2022. This innovative approach is widely welcomed by new tenants and is a key factor in helping to manage the UK’s lengthy waiting lists.

Despite the high demand, with 63% of councils reporting average waiting times of more than 18 months, the survey indicates this critical pressure may be starting to plateau. The proportion of authorities with over 1,000 people on their waiting list has remained steady, suggesting that council strategies to increase supply are beginning to have an impact.

Matt Ellis, APSE Principal Advisor for Parks and author of the report, said, “This year’s findings tell a story of innovation and resilience from local councils. In the face of acute demand and budget pressures, they are not just maintaining allotment services but actively reimagining them. By creating smaller plots, they are making them accessible to a new generation of gardeners with busy modern lifestyles, all while championing biodiversity and inclusivity.”

The report also highlights a strong and growing commitment to environmental sustainability. A significant 80% of councils are now setting aside areas for wildlife on allotment sites, a 5% year-on-year increase. Furthermore, the promotion of pollinator-friendly planting has seen a 15% rise since 2023.

Councils are also making strides in ensuring their services are inclusive. Over half (57%) now make specific provisions for people with disabilities, such as providing raised beds and accessible pathways. 60% of authorities also continue to offer concessionary rents to support vulnerable groups, including pensioners and those on low incomes.

While financial pressures remain, with 63% of councils still subsidising their allotment service, the trend is moving towards cost neutrality. Many are carefully balancing necessary rent increases with the need to keep plots affordable, ensuring they remain a valuable community resource.

Other key findings from the APSE 2025 report include:

• Meeting Demand: 37% of authorities now manage over 30 allotment sites, an increase rise from 27% in 2019, demonstrating a concerted effort to expand provision.
• Fair Access: For the first time, a majority of councils (55%) now restrict plot ownership to one per person or household to ensure fairer access for all.
• Strategic Importance: Over half of all local authorities (57%) now include specific policies for the protection and provision of allotments in their Local Plans, recognising their strategic value.

The full report provides a comprehensive analysis of allotment management, costs, waiting lists, and strategies across the UK. You can access it here.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

1. The survey was conducted by APSE in June-August 2025. The full ‘Local Authority State of the Market 2025: Allotment Services’ report is available here.
2. APSE (the Association for Public Service Excellence) is a not-for-profit organisation working with over 300 local governments and other public bodies across the UK. We advise on how to deliver frontline services that are locally accountable, responsive, and efficient.
3. For media enquiries, please contact George Barton, APSE Communications Officer on [email protected] .