Residents digging in

Plans for new allotments in Springfield Road have been met with a mixed response. Biddulph Town Council Allotments Committee have submitted an application for 31 new allotments with access path and landscaping on vacant land in Springfield Road to satisfy a pressing need for gardening space. The Town Council currrent has two allotments sites – one in Moorland Road and one off Park Lane – which are in great demand and are currently full with long waiting lists. But the plans have been met with a mixed response.

In Bloom ChairCouncillor Hilda Sheldon supports the proposal, she said “We have a pressing need for more allotments because we have a long waiting list of people and we have an obligation to the community to try and provide them. Some people have been waiting many years. The list never seems to go down so we have got a pressing need. It’s wonderful really for people to get the chance to grow their own food.” However there are a number of comments objecting to the plans on the SMDC website with safety being a concern. A report by the police has also highlighted the need for security stating that “security will be an important consideration for the allotment holders as allotments with poor security are often targeted by offenders resulting in a downwardly spiraling situation.” They have recommended a higher fence, strong sheds and a path around the edge. The application can be viewed by searching for reference number SMD/2015/0554 at staffsmoorlands.gov.uk Those interested in becoming taking an allotment can put their name on the waiting list by calling 01782 297845 or by visiting biddulph.co.uk/allotments and completing the application form.