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.

Guidance to Complete the Survey

To ensure consistency of responses, please note the following:

Site name
Use 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.