Information for New Plot Holders – March 2024
Dear Plot Holder,
Welcome to Bourne Vale Allotments!
We hope you enjoy not only the satisfaction of nurturing your own plot but also coming together with our friendly group of growers. We hope the following information helps you feel part of our community but don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of anything.
Bourne Vale Allotments Ltd was set up in April 2020 and rents the land from London Borough of Bromley Council. As we are a limited company, all new Plot Holders automatically become “Company Members”. The Company Directors are unpaid volunteers and also Plot Holders. The day to day management of the site is delegated to the Committee. Anyone is welcome to join the committee and we encourage you to get involved!
A ‘Who’s Who’ is attached so that you know who to contact. Our website is also being developed so please do keep checking back at www.bournevaleallotments.co.uk
What does it cost to join?
• All new Plot Holders pay a joining fee of £25. This will be refunded when a Plot Holder leaves provided that their plot has been cultivated, is well maintained, and in good condition for the next person to take on.
• All new Plot Holders pay £20 for a gate key. When a Plot Holder leaves the original gate key must be returned for a refund. Please do not make copies of your key as they often damage the padlock. If a replacement or extra key is required, please ask the Lettings Secretary so that they are cut from the master key.
• Rent is due annually on 1st October. Rent letters are sent out during September. New Plot Holders pay the proportionate rent from the start of their tenancy.
• The current rent is £34 per annum for a half plot (£28 pa for over 60s), or £20 per annum for a quarter plot (£17pa for over 60s).
How big is a plot?
• Our plots are normally provided as half plots (approx. 30 x 27 ft), or in some cases can also be let as quarter size plots (approx. 15 x 13 ft). There is some variation which makes each one unique!
• We ask that Plot Holders think about the time commitment they can make to ensure their plot is cultivated and managed throughout the year.
• If plots are very neglected without good cause, Plot Holders will not be asked to renew their tenancy and let to someone on our waiting list. If you are unable to manage your plot for reasons such as illness, please discuss this with the Lettings Secretary so that we can ensure a reasonable solution is agreed.
What are the rules and why so many?
• Our rules are to ensure that we meet the tenancy requirements from LBB and Bromley Allotments and Leisure Gardens Limited (BALGL). Most are common sense and to respect fellow Plot Holders.
• Our rules will be given to you but they are also on our website and displayed in the community shed.
What else do I need to know?
Allotment Shop – Open every Sunday morning from 10am to 11.30am, from March/April to November. Closed on August Bank Holiday weekend.
Community Shed – Recharge batteries and recharge yourself with a cuppa.
Machinery Shed – The key is stored in the community shed in a key safe. You will be given the code when you join.
Manure Holding Bay – When available, manure is £2 per level wheelbarrow load. Prices may vary but will be clearly displayed. Please pay Keith Dixon (plots D3, D4, C4) either in cash or by bank transfer with a reference of ‘manure’ followed by your plot number.
Sheds and Greenhouses – If you wish to add (or replace) a shed or greenhouse on your plot, you must apply for permission from the Committee with a diagram showing the proposed size in relation to the plot. The maximum shed size is 6’ x 4’. No concrete bases are allowed so please use slabs. All structures must be at least 9” (approximately 23cm) from the edge of the plot.
Social Events – Several events are run throughout the year including a plant sale in May or June, a summer picnic or BBQ, and Christmas drinks and nibbles. Please check the website and notice board for updates. We welcome anyone who can help at these events and encourage you to get involved! Please contact the Social Secretary for more information.
Toilet – Our composting toilet is available for all. You will find information on its use on the inside walls. The key is stored in the community shed.
Wheelbarrows – These are next to the shop shed. Feel free to help yourself but return them as soon as you’ve finished with them. Please do not leave them filled as this causes them to rust especially if it rains.
Best Wishes
The Directors
Bourne Vale Allotments Ltd