New County Durham allotment rules to allow caravans on plots

Durham County Council is set to approve the changes as part of plans to make tenancies “fairer and more flexible” for plot owners. 

Vehicles, parts and caravans are currently banned, but a transition rule allows tenants who already have a caravan to keep it until their tenancy ends or the caravan becomes a hazard.

The proposals follow a public consultation carried out by the local authority earlier this year, which received 343 responses from the public. 

Nicola Lyons, cabinet member for stronger communities and belonging, said: “Your feedback has helped to shape these proposals, which we believe will result in fairer and more flexible tenancy agreements that not only reflect modern growing practices, but the need to ensure allotments remain tidy and productive.”

Cabinet members will be asked to agree to several changes to its allotment policy, transition rules and tenancy agreements at a meeting on Wednesday (March 18). 

Also included in the proposals are plans to reduce the minimum cultivation level from 75 per cent to 50 per cent, including what is grown in greenhouses and polytunnels. 

The qualifying period for co-workers to automatically gain the tenancy of a plot if the lead tenant gives it up would be reduced from five years to three.

Demand for allotments remains high in County Durham, with more than 2,300 people on the waiting list.

Meanwhile, the current ban on cockerels due to noise nuisance is set to be lifted. 

Cllr Lyons added: “Allotments are valued community assets, providing a space for people to grow their own food and experience the health benefits of time spent outdoors. They also bring families together and create a sense of connection among people of all ages.

“We know how much allotments mean to people; that’s why we were so keen to hear from tenants and anyone with an interest in allotments before making any changes. I would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation.