31/08/2009

Allotment plots in Lancaster Extended

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New allotment plots are available for 50 families to grow their own fruit and vegetables in Lancaster.

The popular Fairfield allotments near the centre of Lancaster. John Lambert, secretary of Fairfield Allotment Association, said: "The design support and funding that could subsequently be secured allowed us to create 26 new plots and plant a new harvesting hedge that will soon produce blackberry,dog rose, and hawthorne." Now, there is also secure fencing as well as a new rainwater collection system.

The improvements were made possible by funding from Awards for All along with contributions from Lancashire County Council's environmental projects team, Lancashire Allotment Fund and Gateway Grant scheme.The opportunity to extend the site came about as plans were being developed for use of neighbouring land by a local school into a running track and the areas environmental groupFAUNA Had these plans gone ahead without making changes to the allotments we would have lost the ability to turn vehicles on the plots, making manure and other deliveries very difficult.

We also had (and still have) a huge waiting list of up to 6 six years so the chance to add some new plots had to be pursued.Fundraising has been the biggest part of the project and thanks must go to to all the funds that have shown their support. They are:

 

Awards for All - Lottery Fund

Lancashire Locals Climate Change Fund

Environmental Directorate (LCC)

Galbraith Trust

Lancaster City Council Allotment fund

Gateway Grant (LCC)