Allotments

Information about allotments, how to apply for a plot and what are the charges.

Information about allotments

There are several allotments in Solihull that are operated by the Council and Parish Councils (map of allotment locations can be found on the right of this page). Allotment gardening provides a wide range of benefits to communities and the environment. Apart from providing low cost food, they also provide valuable recreational opportunities involving healthy activity and social contacts. Allotments are significant to our green spaces and provide habitats for many forms of wildlife.

Allotments have evolved through a rich and varied history of social and economic change, the most notable being the 2nd World War where the public were encouraged to 'Grow their own Greens' and 'Dig for Britain'. The first legislative reforms date back to the Enclosures Act of 1845.

Today, we have a statutory requirement to provide allotments for the public.

Taking on an allotment plot is not all hard work; it can have many advantages, providing fresh home grown vegetables, fruit and flowers for you and your family, free from artificial additives and at a fraction of that you would have expected to pay in a supermarket or greengrocer.

There is also the social side, meeting new friends with similar interests and enabling you to enjoy a healthy outdoor life with gentle exercise and a place to relax and unwind.

For up to date information on what is happening on allotments in Solihull please read our latest Allotment News.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get an allotment?

To apply simply complete the application form (on the right of this page) and either fax to 0121 704 8162 or post to Allotment Applications, Transport, Highways & Environmental Management, Solihull MBC, Central Depot, Moat Lane, Solihull B91 2LW.

What are Allotment DO's and DONT'S?

Allotments are a safe haven, as long as you follow some simple rules:

DO

• Keep the plot cultivated at all times and free from weeds and in a clean and tidy condition.
• Keep rubbish to a minimum by composting all green waste
• Keep all items clear of the paths around your plot
• Pay your rent on time
• Keep gates locked on site at all times
• Keep equipment away from access routes and locked up when not in use
• Contact the Allotment officer if you change your address or if you wish to vacate your plot
• Get involved in the allotment forum or working party if you wish
• Enjoy your allotment and the produce you grow
• Ask for advice if you need any and contribute to the Allotments Newsletter

DON'T

• Erect sheds or other constructions without prior approval
• Light bonfires without following the Council's Code of Practice for bonfires
• Plant trees on allotment sites
• Use your allotment for business or retail purposes
• Bring domestic refuse onto allotment sites
• Leave chemicals in allotment sheds, keep them at home in a safe place

Please note that terms within tenancy agreements vary slightly from site to site depending on site management.

How much does an allotment cost?

We operate a discount scheme of rent reduction for tenants who, at the 1 April each year, are aged over 60 years. In order to qualify for this scheme details of date of birth must be given on the discount application form, available on request. There is also a discount offered to unemployed people and registered carers.

Annual allotment charges for 1st April 2008 - 31st March 2009

Contact Details

For more information on Allotments please contact us on either:

Telephone: 0121 704 8000

Email: connectcc@solihull.gov.uk