Local authorities must apply to the Secretary of State for consent if they want to sell statutory allotment land or use it for another purpose. Before applying for consent, authorities should consult the National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners. Existing plot holders should also be notified of applications for consent and the Secretary of State will take account of any objections in their decision. The Government fully supports the allotment movement and is concerned to minimise the loss of allotment land.
Applications for disposal consent in the region are made to us and should cover the following issues:
- Is the allotment land in question needed, or surplus to requirements?
- Will adequate provision be made for displaced plot holders, or is such provision not necessary or unable to be met?
- Has proper account been taken of the number of people on the waiting list for plots?
- Has the authority actively publicised the availability of allotment sites in their area to local people?
- The implications of the disposal for other relevant policies, such as those in the development plan for the area.
Proposed replacement sites for displaced plot holders should be adequate for the purpose. They should be suitable for spade cultivation with accessible water supply, fencing and security measures and they should be within three-quarters of a mile (1.2 kilometres) of the centre of demand.
