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Post by andy on May 7, 2014 16:41:34 GMT
Ok, please bear with me on this one...here's a brief outline.
Our allotments are managed by ourselves, we have an elected committee of Chair, vice chair, treasurer and secretary plus a few committee members. we have an AGM and everything is done above board with the annual publication of finances plus minuted meetings etc. There hasn't been a committee meeting for over 2 years because no one can be bothered.
However, there are a lot of new plot holders and many feel that the current committee are both out of date and very clicky. Now obviously this is our perogative to vote them off and re-elect new members. A quick example is that the current chairman is about 350 80 years old and his views reflect that. He has told me the other day that the site has too many women who bring their kids up and do nothing !!!!!!!!!
So we feel that a new committee should be elected at the next AGM (February). But we need to come with a plan...a vision of what people would like to see in the next year, 5 years and 10 years.
Ive knocked a few thing together and would like to run them past you and see if you would feel comfortable to have this on your plot.
1 year
To create a new committee of Chairperson, vice chair, secretary and treasurer plus a committee of a further 6 members consisting of both men and women. To increase rents by 50% from £1.50/rod to £2.25/rod (1/2 plots are 10 rod, full plots are 20 rods) in order to set aside funds for projects. Look at the rules and contracts and change or amend where necessary Install 2 notice boards and keep people updated Publish a monthly newsletter (reduce to bi- monthly during winter) and ask people's opinions on what they want to see before going to committee. Try to obtain some kind of sponsorship from local business Number all plots using proper numbers on posts
5 year
To double the size of the carpark and include manure, compost, bark chip bins To purchase and install a community shed To purchase a rotorvator, strimmer, cultivator and hand tools, plus rat poisons, chemicals, fertilizers for everyone to use Install a complete new water system using alcathene pipe and double the amount of outlets An annual community event/barbeque in summer for plotholders. To do something about the paths which are lethal when wet...maybe add woodchip and generally level them out
10 year
Install a compostable toilet (planning permission needed) Re fence all plots with new rabbit proof fence, new posts and new gates Secure perimeter fence with height restriction barrier
So please tear this to shreds....no offence will be taken and please, add your own suggestions
Regards
Andy |
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Post by Rosefriend on May 7, 2014 19:27:06 GMT
Blimey andy - certainly something to ponder about.... Rf |
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Post by Rosefriend on May 8, 2014 12:31:27 GMT
I was chatting to someone the other day and they live in Bremen which is about 45minutes away from us and we ended up chatting about allotments or the German equivalent...
Several things came to light...
One of the allotments where he is has changed hands and the list of rules has become so long that you think twice before you do anything for fear of breaking one of rules, plus the prices have gone up to such a degree that a lot have given up - probably what was intended in the first place. You can only go at certain times etc., no alcohol, preferably totally weed free - perfect in fact - think they even want the bugs to walk around and salute...he has now said that he will do this season and leave.
Then another one that he has just joined that is easy going, very friendly and has two things that he feels are important - not necessary, but a good idea, when people are prepared to join in and help.
Two plots have been put aside for raised bed gardening - kids, older people or people with disablements and are "freebie plots" - well that is what it translates out as, people pay nothing or only what they can really afford. The plots are divided into as many bits as is possible without making them ridiculously small and useless. These plots are given, to people for one season (to start with), who haven't the money for the fees/would love to start an allotment and haven't a clue/ perhaps they need the fresh produce - again a monetary situation, one on that plot grows fresh stuff as she is allergic to sooo many things etc. Children are also encouraged to share a raised bed etc.
In order to help the regulars throw the odd seed packet etc that they don't need into a pot and these are shared out within these two plots.
Let's face it - having an allotment is not a cheap hobby and more seeds and plants are always bought than are needed...
I think the idea is marvellous - however it needs controlling and that is where problems start to occur but it is possible nevertheless...
All the other ideas that you have posted sound good to me -the only stipulation that I would have is that it remains fun!
Nothing worse than having the feeling that you have to go to the allotment and must do this, that and the other!!
RF
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Post by andy on May 8, 2014 15:16:16 GMT
Fantastic stuff RF.
The problem with our present committee is they are too lenient. Our present rules state that all plots need to be cultivated and used. we have about 5 plots that have either nothing or very minimal work done to them. One plot hasn't been touched for 2 years and I know the guy has been given several warnings. Plots are supposed to be inspected every 3 months and any found to not be used are given a yellow card...a month to sort things out (unless suitable excuses such as medical grounds, are offered)
The amount of allotments allocated to one person needs to change too, a 10m x 20m plot should be ample for one person whereas some people currently have 3 full size plots.
Also, we have a waiting list, however, if someone gives up a plot, it'll often go to one of their mates (I shouldn't complain, that's how I got mine)....it needs to be fair on people who've had their names down for some time.
Another thing is shed size, we're currently not allowed to have anything over an 8 x 6. I'd like to increase that to 10 x 8.
So it's all about fairness really.
One of our problems is we're in the middle of nowhere and in between two very busy roads. It's therefore not the easiest thing to get community involvement. As far as im aware, we don't have any disabled members, not that they could get up the paths if we did. I would like to change this too and try to make it as accessible as possible.
Im all for seed and plant swaps....ive just given away loads of seeds and onion sets as well as the manure. I just put a sign in the carpark saying help yourself.
Any of these suggestions would have to be agreed by all members before auctioning....and input would happily be taken on board from plot holders if they wish to see something.
So please keep the suggestions coming,
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Post by Rosefriend on May 8, 2014 17:19:14 GMT
I think on the problem with the non usage of plots... Our present rules state that all plots need to be cultivated and used. we have about 5 plots that have either nothing or very minimal work done to them. One plot hasn't been touched for 2 years and I know the guy has been given several warnings. Plots are supposed to be inspected every 3 months and any found to not be used are given a yellow card...a month to sort things out (unless suitable excuses such as medical grounds, are offered)Is theory simple enough - the plots have to be used, each season, medical grounds will, and are, certainly taken into consideration but if a member cannot work his plot for more than a month then a family member/friend must take that work on. After one season then the plot will be given to someone on the waiting list. Obviously andy something like this can only be sorted on a individual basis - if a faithful member is suddenly ill for a long time, then one has to have compassion but I think they should still get a family member/friend to work their plot in their absence??!! Shed size - does it really matter until other things have been sorted perhaps?? Main thing you have a shed!! A loo - you have put it on a 10 year basis - is there some kind of loo there at all?? I mean if someone isn't very well/getting on in years, they may not go to the allotment in case they are caught short.. One plot per person - yes that is enough - or a "share is allowed" but 3 for one person....mmmh not very fair, I don't think! One thing that perhaps Ladygardener may have an opinion on is: To do something about the paths which are lethal when wet...maybe add woodchip and generally level them out
This is incredibly important, as far as I am concerned - what about getting it in autumn and leave the levelling - just make it safe for the time being?? I am sure that you will get things sorted andy - easy it will not be....however as long as people have a choice there will always be conversation and agreements - it is only when there is no choice that tempers are short. RF |
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Post by Jasmine on May 8, 2014 17:54:54 GMT
You've really given that some thought andy. I would say your thoughts reflect the 'rules' at my old lotties almost exactly, they were run by Crowborough Town Council. The compost loo was a God send! Some one was responsible for regular plot inspections and the owners of untended plots got a letter. If they didn't work on their plots within a set time they lost them and the waiting list was worked down. One person used to be responsible for ordering in tons of manure and mushroom compost after a quick whizz round of who would like some. The mountain was then supervised by that person and everyone took however many wheelbarrow loads they had paid for. We had a cattle trough watering system - with a ball cock thingy so folk filled their watering cans and the trough just kept filling to the set level. The other thing that was fun was that we did lottie bbqs every now and again. The current chairman sounds like he needs a slap bit of a chat about work loads!   |
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Post by Ladygardener on May 9, 2014 6:27:19 GMT
I'm afraid our allotments are very badly managed and despite constantly saying at meetings that the rules say you have to work the plot, most of ours are not being worked at all and nothing is being done. We did manage to force the council to add a load of small stones and shale to some of the pathways for safety sake but the handrails promised never appeared nor did the levelling near the very steep walk up to the communal storage uint. A compost toilet would definately be a good idea andy. |
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Post by Barbara on May 9, 2014 7:24:27 GMT
We've had the same committee for years at our lotties, this year we have 6 new members, we are hoping things will get done quicker, already a skip has been brought on site and lots of cleaning up has been done, but like your place Andy there are plots that look unused even though they are owned by people who don't care what state they get into, weeds seeding and such, I suppose it's all down to how much people care, but we always have a show in August, and the new ones have added such things as a beer tent and stuff for the kids, so at least they are trying. and we are on the telly.  |
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Post by andy on May 9, 2014 16:08:08 GMT
Thank you  Keep the replies coming....im taking all the suggestions on board. |
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Post by Tig on May 9, 2014 22:39:54 GMT
You have given the matter a lot of thought andy - I would be wary of pushing the prices up too quickly as some people who are retired may already budget for what they can afford. 50% is a lot if you aren't working and have a fixed income, and an allotment may not only provide a source of cheaper food but also provide a means to still feeling useful, free exercise and a healthier lifestyle for those on low incomes, including Mums with children. Remember that the people on the existing committee have probably been the only ones who could be bothered to get involved and do things when allotments were not 'fashionable'. Do they have a 'following'? If they are ejected will there be a revolt in some sections? Enthusiasm is great, but radical changes are not always welcome across the board, and support can be fleeting, then you are left with it all, and it could become quite daunting if people are not committed to the long term plans. |
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Post by Rosefriend on May 10, 2014 6:51:42 GMT
You know andy, I think Tig has a good point - putting the rents up by 50% is a big increase... How are the fees paid - monthly?? If so then they are 15/30 Pounds (half/full plot) monthly at the moment and then 22,50/45,00Pounds...that is one hell of a price to pay per year - 540Pounds for a full plot...nay Andy - surely I have got it wrong - or?? RF |
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Post by andy on May 10, 2014 7:22:07 GMT
How are the fees paid - monthly?? If so then they are 15/30 Pounds (half/full plot) monthly at the moment and then 22,50/45,00Pounds...that is one hell of a price to pay per year - 540Pounds for a full plot...nay Andy - surely I have got it wrong - or?? RF Sorry RF, I don't quite follow
As you say, we currently pay £15/£30 for a half/full plot....this is the total annual cost and is paid in one hit in October. So a 50% increase would result in an extra £7.50 for as half plot and £15 for a full....annually.
Ive checked out the prices other people pay for their plots all over the country and it would seem that the average is around the £45-£60 for a full plot with good facilities.
I don't think that people will mind paying the extra as long as they see the money going back into the site....new machinery, community shed, toilet, safer, better access etc etc.
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Post by Rosefriend on May 10, 2014 7:38:10 GMT
How are the fees paid - monthly?? If so then they are 15/30 Pounds (half/full plot) monthly at the moment and then 22,50/45,00Pounds...that is one hell of a price to pay per year - 540Pounds for a full plot...nay Andy - surely I have got it wrong - or?? RF Sorry RF, I don't quite follow
As you say, we currently pay £15/£30 for a half/full plot....this is the total annual cost and is paid in one hit in October. So a 50% increase would result in an extra £7.50 for as half plot and £15 for a full....annually.
Ive checked out the prices other people pay for their plots all over the country and it would seem that the average is around the £45-£60 for a full plot with good facilities.
I don't think that people will mind paying the extra as long as they see the money going back into the site....new machinery, community shed, toilet, safer, better access etc etc.
Bloody hell andy - that sounds far better - I thought you were paying monthly - I had visions of gold plated toms !!! 50% is still a lot in one go - perhaps over a 2 year period...? Yes I agree that if people really do see the money going back into the site then they will probably accept it...as Tig said however, some may not be able to afford it...or find it difficult, and then feel forced to give up something they love...difficult one isn't it.. RF |
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Post by Barbara on May 10, 2014 10:16:00 GMT
On our site OAP and people out of work get the plots half price, I think 50% is a lot in one go though, can you not sell stuff to raise funds, ours buys bags of MPC in bulk and sells it
on to the plot holders to make a profit, same with veg. plants.
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Post by Ladygardener on May 10, 2014 18:17:55 GMT
I agree that increasing the rent by 50% as one of the first things to be done might be a bit much for some people. Perhaps it would be better to see how things work out for the first year or so before making the increase. That way, you'd get people on board before asking for more money.
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Post by Chuckles on May 13, 2014 5:04:38 GMT
Sounds like you have some good ideas andy. I can't really think of anything to add to what has already been said really. I agree with Tig that radical changes are not always welcome and you could end up with problems if you don't go softly softly to start with, maybe if you could just get one person on board with some of your ideas and then maybe work as a team to get things moving. |
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Post by andy on May 17, 2014 4:20:26 GMT
Well ive been having a chat with some of the plotholders over the past week and everyone ive spoken to are not happy with the way things are being run.
They would all welcome a 50% price increase as long as they saw the excess being put back into the site as an improvement. I mentioned a few of the suggestions and they were very happy. They also made a few suggestions of their own....we need to get rid of Rats and Rabbits....some how !!!! and the big consensus of opinion was we need to pay for someone to come in every few weeks and strim the communial areas and paths.
We currently have no water and the situation has been a fiasco. We had a major leak last year that put another £650 on the bill. As the treasurer said he didn't like to keep too much money in the account, we couldn't cover the bill. He therefore had to ask every plot holder for an extra £15, which I happily gave, as did most people.
So a few of the natives dig down for the leak, repair it and turn it on...only to find there's still a leak somewhere else.
Meanwhile, it's now May and people want to water stuff they've planted.
This week, a private company was sent by the local water authority and they told us that the leak is not from the taps !!!! Well I think that we kind of worked that out !!!!! The water boards are now sending their leak detection team down.....but who knows when.
So this'll probably be one of the busiest times of the year and we've got no water.
just one of the reasons people are getting very fed up.
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Post by Rosefriend on May 17, 2014 5:37:02 GMT
If people are happy to pay more andy then go for it - I agree the water situation has to be sorted out - can't really expect plants to grow on love alone... You say that "They would all welcome a 50% price increase as long as they saw the excess being put back into the site as an improvement" then talk about getting in " someone to come in every few weeks and strim the communal areas and paths."Now I know that in many clubs people would rather pay others than do the work themselves but perhaps everyone could help a few hours a month with that..save the money for something more needed??!! Unless there are some strapping teenagers willing to earn a few bob... Rf |
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