New ownership of allotment site grows opportunities for local gardeners

It is blooming good news for green fingered Bury St Edmunds residents as the town’s newest allotments, secured by West Suffolk Council, are handed over.

The new site at Moreton Hall will help reduce the current waiting lists for plots and encourage people to grow their own food, as well as support biodiversity.

The provision of the allotments was a planning condition for Taylor Wimpey, who handed over possession of the site to West Suffolk Council at the beginning of February.

Due to the Bury St Edmunds Town Council being the official allotment authority for the area, West Suffolk Council will be transferring ownership to Bury St Edmunds Town Council immediately.

Ian Shipp, the cabinet member for Leisure, said: “This is fantastic news for the local community.

“We understand how important access to allotments is for thriving communities, not only for growing produce but also for promoting wellbeing and enjoying nature.

“With addition of 42 allotment plots on the new site, more people can enjoy the benefits of allotment gardening.”

Diane Hind, the Mayor of Bury St Edmunds, said: “Bury St Edmunds Town Council currently manages over 330 allotments, and we’re delighted to finally take on the responsibility of managing the Moreton Hall allotment site. 

“The town council already has a waiting list for these allotments and our allotments clerk has emailed those people with the offer of a plot.

“In addition to the benefit and taste of homegrown vegetables, the benefits of an allotment are improved physical and mental health.

“Activity, and being in the fresh air can be calming, reduce anxiety, provide social contact and sanctuary.

“This is why we are so passionate about our allotments, and the vital role they play in our communities.”

Residents on the waiting list will be assigned a plot by the town council, which they can then cultivate.

Water is available onsite and the cost will be shared amongst the new plot holders by the town council as part of their annual rent.

Those interested in applying for an allotment can find more information by visiting: https://www.burystedmunds-tc.gov.uk/allotments