National Allotment Society Surveys
The National Allotment Society (NAS) delivers a programme of surveys throughout the year to better understand the changing landscape of allotments across England.
These surveys are aimed at different audiences—including local authorities, allotment associations, and plot holders—and each one focuses on a specific theme or priority area.The insights gathered are used to inform strategy, support local and national decision-making, and strengthen the case for allotments in planning and investment.
As new surveys are launched, they will be added to this page.
Magazine Survey
The National Allotment Society is currently undertaking a survey of members to better understand how The Allotment & Leisure Gardener Magazine is being received and read.
As our members-only magazine, it plays an important role in sharing news, practical advice, and inspiration with allotment holders across the country, whether it is received directly by individual members or via an association. We would like to hear your views on what you enjoy most, what you find useful, and what could be improved, as well as what you would like to see included in future issues.
Your feedback really matters and plays a vital role in shaping the future of the magazine. Please do take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your views with us.
This feedback will help us build a clearer picture of readers’ needs and preferences, ensuring the magazine continues to develop and remains relevant, informative, and engaging for all members.
Local Authority (Council) Allotment Survey
The National Allotment Society is currently undertaking a
nationwide survey of local authorities
to establish a clear and up-to-date picture of allotment provision, demand, and management.
The last comprehensive survey of this kind took place in 1996. Since then, population growth, housing development, land pressures, and increasing interest in food growing and wellbeing have significantly changed the sector.
This survey will provide the first national update in nearly 30 years.
Who Should Complete This Survey?
If you are a local authority or council responsible for allotments , this survey is for you.
👉 If you are a council, please complete the survey.
Why Your Response Matters
This is a critical piece of national research.
Your response will directly contribute to the evidence used by planners, policymakers, and organisations working to protect and expand allotments.
Guidance to Complete the Survey
To ensure consistency of responses, please note the following:
Site nameUse the official site name as recognised by the council or managing body.
Site size (area in sqm)
Provide total site area in square metres.
Site type (Statutory / Temporary / Private)
Statutory = protected under allotment legislation; Temporary = short-term or leased use; Private = privately owned land not under statutory duty.
Landlord name
Name of the landowner or responsible authority (e.g. council, trust, diocese, private landowner etc.).
Number of plots
Total number of allocated plots at the site .
Site management (Direct / Partial / Self-managed)
Direct = managed by council/authority; Partial = shared management with association; Self-managed = fully run by tenants/association.
Number of vacant plots
Plots currently unallocated and available for letting.
Rent per square metre
Standard annual charge per square metre (if mixed charging, provide average or standardised rate).
Water provision (Y/N)
Indicate if water is available on site (standpipes, tanks, mains supply).
Water included in rent (Y/N)
State whether water costs are included in rent or charged separately.
Toilet provision (Y/N)
Indicate if any toilet facilities are available on site (permanent or portable).
Are fires permitted (Y/N)
Include any restrictions or seasonal bans where applicable.
Number on waiting list
Total number of applicants currently waiting for a plot.
Is a deposit charged (Y/N)
Indicate if a refundable or non-refundable deposit is required on allocation.
Is income fully reinvested into the site (Y/N)
Refers to whether all rental income is reinvested into maintenance and improvement of the site.
Thank you for Completing our Survey
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Registered in 1930 under the Industrial & Provident Societies Acts no. 11144R
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Patron His Majesty King Charles III
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