Community allotments allow residents to grow more of their own
We’re happy to announce that he planning application for Lesmahagow Allotment Project has been approved by the South Lanarkshire Council and ground works will be started in the New Year.
It’s been a long journey to this stage- a number of sites have been investigated and deemed unsuitable for a variety of reasons, so we’re very happy that plans for the allotments off Eastwood Road have been accepted. A big thank you to all who have been involved!
Talks around creating community allotments began in 2012 after receiving many requests from villagers. The Forestry Commission identified potential areas of land for community orchard and allotment developments. We received funds from Central Scotland Green Network for orchard development (now completed) and funds from Climate Challenge Fund and Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership for allotment development.
Through help from the Forestry Commission, we were able to produce a design plan for the community allotments which will be allocated first and foremost to Lesmahagow residents. There will be around 30 allotments ranging in size from 10m x 6m to 10m x 12m. The allotment plots will have water supplies and a hard standing area for parking. There will also be deer / rabbit proof fencing and soil treatment / improvement to ensure of good quality soil for growers. There will be incorporated into the design a secure area for the storage of tools and equipment as well as communal area for allotment holders to meet and greet and shelter for any spells of bad weather.
The Allotments will be a valuable resource for the Lesmahagow Community, allowing residents to grow a lot more of its own produce and be more environmentally aware. Schools and voluntary organisations will be encouraged to take on a plot and use it for educational and activity based sessions. Low food miles and carbon reductions are a part of the grant conditions and every effort will be made to ensure success of this exciting project development.
- Lesmahaow Community Development Trust