GETTING A PLOT

GETTING A PLOT
Here are a few things to consider before you may wish to apply for a plot.
We are looking for enthusiastic members to work an allotment on a unique site of approximately 80 plots. We have water on site and occasional deliveries of manure and wood chippings and we encourage plotholders to grow organically as much as possible with minimum use of chemicals and weedkillers. Plotholders can erect a small shed and have controlled bonfires if required. We have a number of social events such as barbeques in the summer and bonfire night.
There is a variety of plot sizes: full, half and quarter. A half plot is ideal for one person to manage and a quarter may be more suitable for people with less time on their hands or those who are new to gardening. In our experience, it is best to be realistic and not take on too large a plot as this can be an overwhelming task. We have an internal transfer arrangement, so if you wish to change plots later, this is often possible.
We estimate you need to attend to the plot about 4 hours a week minimum and depending on the crops you grow, this could mean a visit every week throughout the year! In the summer, although we encourage mulching to minimise water loss and watering only where needed, it may be necessary to visit every other day.
We ask potential members to consider this time element seriously. If you cannot spare the time to work your plot effectively, you will become disappointed and unfortunately, we do take action if plots are not worked. Bear in mind, the soil is clay and can be heavy to work.
We have a probation period of 3 months starting when someone takes on a new plot. Progress has to be demonstrated during that time, the amount obviously dependent on the time of year. If not enough work has been done, your licence may be revoked.
As part of the licence, there is a requirement for plot holders to spend at least 3 hours a year helping out with communal tasks such as path upkeep, bramble trimming and other jobs that keep the whole site well maintained for everyone to enjoy.
We ensure each member works their plot to a good standard and Notice to Quits are issued where people consistently fail to work their plots.

Our waiting list is currently closed, but we will be opening the list for one day only at our open day on 13th June 2010. People wishing to join the waiting list will be able to do so, in person, by visiting the site on that day. There will be tours of the site so that prospective plotholders can see where we are, and get a realistic idea of the amount of work required to maintain a thriving fruit and vegetable plot. In compliance with the terms of our lease we give priority to Southwark residents on the waiting list. Further details about the day, including opening times, will be posted nearer the day.

We do have a number of raised beds, intended for disabled people, which are available to let at the moment. These measure about 1 metre by 4 metres and are about 600mm high. The annual rent for each raised bed is £8 a year. Unfortunately the site is not fully accessible to people with mobility problems, as the paths are quite uneven and the slope is steep, but we are working to improve this and hope to provide wheelchair access to the lower part of the site soon. If you might be interested in taking on a raised bed, please contact Membership