Partnership action revitalises allotment sites
Melton Borough Council have embarked on a project which aimed to clear overgrown brambles and debris from vacant plots at the Lake Terrace and Doctors Lane allotment sites, bringing them back into use for the community. The council have worked alongside Melton Lions, who have supported on this project bringing time, energy and expertise. Supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, 8 plots have now been cleared.
The council currently has waiting lists for all three allotment sites (Lake Terrace, Doctors Lane and Redwood Avenue), prospective allotment holders will be contacted from the waiting list once a plot becomes available. The council is pleased that this work will enable more community members to enjoy gardening.
Melton Lions have also secured funding to create a community allotment in partnership with a nearby school at the Lake Terrace site. With the area now cleared, they can start working on this exciting community project.
David Houghton of Melton Lions stated that; “Melton Mowbray Lions CIO are pleased to have been able to work with and support the staff at Melton Borough Council in clearing various allotment sites that were severely overgrown with brambles at Lake Terrace and Doctors Lane, Melton Mowbray. As can be seen from the pictures it was impossible for anyone to use the allotments in this condition...
Having now completed the clearance, Melton Mowbray Lions have adopted an allotment plot from the council and are in the process of developing “The Melton Lions Youth Allotment Project” where young people from schools within the borough will be encouraged to come along and grow fruit and vegetables to support those less fortunate within the community. This project is being supported by Melton Borough Council. Environmental projects such as this and the production of fresh local produce is part of Lions International core service issues which Melton Borough Council totally support."
Councillor Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council stated that “I want to take a moment to thank all the teams who have worked hard and together to get the allotments ready for everyone. This is a big step for Melton as we aim to be ‘Cleaner and Greener’.
“Allotments are a fantastic way for people to practice sustainability, grow their own food, and connect with neighbours. They are important green spaces that improve our environment and offer a place to relax and learn. As a council, we are also committed to supporting the ongoing security and sustainability of our allotment sites. There is still more work to be done in support of our commitments to a cleaner, greener borough, and in the next tax year we are increasing resources in support of these commitments.
“Our partnership with Melton Lions and local schools shows our dedication to community and education, making sure these allotments become a lively spot for gardening and social activities."
The Council has allotments at the following locations; Lake Terrace, Doctors Lane and Redwood Avenue. Allotments can be rented from the council at a cost of £65 per year for a full plot and £40 per year for a half plot. If you would like to join the waiting list for an allotment visit the Melton Borough Council website at www.melton.gov.uk/allotment