Report of the Head of Parks, Heritage and Culture

This report sets out an updated strategy from 2020 following a consultation exercise.

Resolved –

1.      that the contents of the report and strategy be noted.

2.      that the Allotment Strategy be approved and adopted for the next five years.

Cabinet received a report of the Head of Parks, Heritage and Culture setting out a new strategy for the next five years.

Councillor Williams, at the invitation of the Mayor, introduced the report.  He thanked officers for their work.  He noted that this item and the following two were closely linked.  He highlighted some of the feedback from the consultation and the current popularity of allotments.

Councillor Watkin, an ex-allotment holder, commented that it was a very rewarding activity.  He cautioned against self-management for allotments, as it could become divisive amongst plotholders. 

Following a comment about pre-preparing plots for new users, Councillor Williams said that this had been raised in the survey and at the recent forum.  Officers had been asked to look into the feasibility of this suggestion.  He acknowledged that the uptake was low by disabled users, however if the preparation could be carried out in advance, this may encourage more disabled residents to apply for a plot.

Councillor Bell stated that he had spoken to an ex-resident of the Farm Terrace Allotments.  There had been discussion with the Head of Parks, Heritage and Culture about a commemorative plaque, or something similar, to be located at the previous allotment site and something at Watford Museum. 

The Mayor responded that he had also been involved in those discussions about something to recognise the former site.  Allotments were a part of the council’s civic history and therefore something should be displayed at the museum.

RESOLVED –

1.      that the contents of the report and strategy be noted.

2.      that the Allotment Strategy be approved and adopted for the next five years.