Allotments 4 All

If you have ever fancied trying your hand at gardening and are interested in fresh air and even fresher food you could choose to rent one of Leicester’s allotment plots.

Taking an allotment could not be easier. It will definitely help improve your general health and fitness and is a great way to relieve stress. It can also provide you with a supply of fresh fruit and vegetables and save you money.

There are 45 operational allotment sites across the city offering 3200 cultivated plots in total. Annual rental costs from £6.50p to £22 per 300 square yard plot, with the higher rates including all water charges. There may also be an initial charge of £5 to £25 required as a refundable key deposit.

There are 32 city allotments managed by local allotment societies, with members happy to meet with anyone interested in taking on an allotment to discuss their individual plans and requirements, offer advice and calculate annual charges.

The 22 allotment societies in Leicester all provide full-time stewards who look after the day-to-day management. Societies may also offer the opportunity to buy compost, fertiliser, seeds and other gardening supplies on site - often at discounted prices.

The remaining sites are owned by the city council and leased directly to users. Direct let sites do not offer on-site management but site visits and any necessary maintenance work or repairs are undertaken by the council.

It is recommended that beginners go with an allotment society managed plot as first-timers can find the advice and resources provided at these sites extremely useful.

Everyone is made very welcome so don’t be put off if you are a complete beginner - there are always experienced gardeners available to offer guidance and advice.

For more information please contact the Allotments Manager on (0116) 251 8666 or complete the Allotments Information Form.

• Environ: www.environ.org.uk
  
  
• BBC Leicester's environment pages: www.bbc.co.uk/leicester/environment
  
  
• The National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners (NSALG): www.nsalg.org.uk/
  
  
• The Beehive online network for community groups: www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/beehive
  
  This site includes informantion on the Rowley Fields Allotment Society and Narborough & Littlethorpe Leisure Gardeners' Association (NLLGA).