Q: How do I apply for a plot?
A: Simply fill out the online form on this site and your request will be sent to the Association secretary.
Q: How long will I have to wait for a plot?
A: The waiting time for a plot depends on the length of the waiting list in any one year and the churn of plot holders. This makes it difficult to say how long one might wait for a plot. Typically a quarter plot will become available more frequently than a half or whole plot.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: All members (households count as a single member) pay an annual, regardless of plot size. Dues are revised every year and subject to changes in rent for the site, water rates and costs to the Association. Hosepipes may be used on site for a supplementary annual fee. See below for a summary of the 2021-2022 charges.
| Plot type | Membership (per household) | Dues | Hosepipe (optional) | Total (no hosepipe) | Total (inc. hosepipe) |
| Full | £5 | £80 | £8 | £85 | £93 |
| Half | £5 | £40 | £4 | £45 | £49 |
| Quarter | £5 | £20 | £2 | £25 | £27 |
Q: How big is a plot?
A: Plots vary slightly in size due to the shape and history of the site. The approximate average size of a full plot is 215m2 (2,314sq. ft), equivalent to a square plot of sides 14.7m (48ft). Many plots are divided into half plots or quarter plots and are scaled accordingly.
Q: Can I bring my dog to the allotment?
A: Dogs are allowed on the site under the condition that they are on a leash and secured when on the plot. It is expected that any fouling is removed from the site and that members respect other members’ plots by not allowing their dogs to access any plot other than their own.
Q: Can I build a greenhouse or shed on my plot?
A: Standing structures such as greenhouses or sheds are subject to the terms of the lease and regulated accordingly. If you would like to erect a greenhouse or shed, please contact the Association’s secretary to seek advice before purchasing any materials. Members are also asked to be considerate when erecting a structure and not shade other members’ plots.
Q: What can I keep on my plot?
A: The only restrictions are that: no animals are kept on the plot (please contact the Association’s secretary if you are considering keeping honey bees on site); plots are not to be used to store refuse or garden waste from outside the site and any debris from demolished structures is removed in good time.
Q: Can I use my plot as part of a business?
A: No, plots and the produce grown on them cannot be used for monetary gain or as part of a business.
Q: What can I grow on my plot?
A: Plots are to be kept weed free and in good order. Any trees that are planted should be on dwarfing rootstock and regularly pruned to ensure they do not become overgrown. Members are responsible for the maintenance of trees on their plots. Plot holders are asked to operate a considerate planting ethos and think of their neighbours when choosing the best position for shade or seed casting plants.
Q: Can I have a bonfire on the plot?
A: Bonfires are allowed on site between November 5th and March 31st under the condition that: no wet leaves or green material is burned; any fires are safely controlled and not too large or a fire risk to trees, structures, other plots or neighbouring property; bonfires are only to to be burned for as long as necessary, not all day. We ask that plot holders consider the air quality of our neighbours when planning a bonfire. Bonfires outside the November 5th to March 31st window are forbidden unless the Association Committee permits them due to exceptional circumstances.
Q: Can I get involved with the running of the allotments?
A: Yes! We value the participation of anyone willing to give their time to help administer the allotments so that we can all enjoy our gardens. Roles and responsibilities are decided at the A.G.M., appropriate notice of which is given to all members. Members can also volunteer to get involved in the annual open day with roles ranging from selling tickets and serving refreshments, to leading tours and erecting gazebos.
St Margaret's Allotments 