Allotments boost

Potential allotment gardeners and others who aspire to grow their own food are often horrified when they discover the length of allotment waiting lists and the under-provision of allotment sites in many areas of urban and rural Scotland.

I welcome the government’s Community Empowerment Bill, published this week, which has the potential to become a turning point for allotments.

A large part of the bill is given over to bringing existing legislation on allotments, which dates back to the 1880s, into the 21st century.

No longer will some local authorities be able to shirk their responsibilities in meeting local demand for allotment plots.

Home-grown local, seasonal food is good for our health, well-being and the planet.

Alongside the nutritional 
benefits of eating home-grown food, allotments provide physical exercise, green spaces, and stress relief.

In the wider context, allotment sites have the potential to become the hub of their communities.

Jenny Mollison

Inveresk Village

East Lothian