Allotments in New Alresford
In New Alresford, the Town Council manage nearly 100 allotment plots of differing sizes spread across two sites, Spring Gardens and Watercress Gardens. Both sites are located off Spring Gardens, Alresford, SO24 9QB and plots are available to residents of New Alresford to rent on an annual basis.
The Spring Gardens allotments opened in 2004 and the site was subsequently extended. More recently due to growing demand for allotments, the Council sought to identify and develop additional land, and the Watercress Gardens site was opened in 2024.
Plots on the two sites range in size from 35 square meters to 177 square meters and are currently charged at £0.80 per square metre, with a one-off refundable deposit.
The Alresford Allotment Society take an active role in helping manage the two sites, working closely with the Town Council to ensure plots are productive and well maintained and the sites are looked after appropriately. The Society welcome new plot holders, arrange for the delivery of manure and wood chippings, organise speakers and provide a valuable point of contact for plot holders.
If you would like to join the waiting list for an allotment, please download an Application Form here and return to committeeclerk@newalresford-tc.gov.uk
Download the Allotment policy and rules here Allotment Policy & Rules
History of Allotments
The system of allotments operating across the UK today has its roots in the nineteenth century, when land was given over to the working poor so that they could grow their own food. This was needed due to rapid industrialisation and there being no welfare state. In 1908 the Small Holdings and Allotments Act came into force, placing a duty on local authorities to provide sufficient allotments, according to demand.
The environmental, community and health benefits of allotments
Allotments are rich in biodiversity, creating green spaces for wildlife and pollinators, while also boosting the health and wellbeing of plot holders. Allotment gardening also offers the additional benefits of social interaction that can help alleviate loneliness and enable people to contribute to their community. Allotments can have an educational value through teaching plot holders to grow their own and gain knowledge from the experienced allotment community. There is enormous satisfaction in eating produce you have grown yourself and if managed properly, an allotment can produce enough food to supplement your shopping, providing fresh fruit and vegetables over the year. Allotment gardeners can also choose to garden organically and avoid ingesting chemicals that are likely to be present on shop bought fruit and vegetables.