Lay-out and design of sustainable allotments

Subject: The lay-out and design of sustainable allotments

Working group 1

Allotment gardens have always been an answer to certain social needs and expectations. Therefore it is crucial to recognize what are the present social needs and expectations, as well as to identify the political, legal, urban, economical and environmental landscape surrounding allotment gardens. We should look outside our federations for inspiration.

It is absolutely vital for our movement to secure the land which serves allotment gardens. We also must preserve the existing garden sites. These should be the main goals for all federations.

In many countries there is a growing demand for allotments, especially in the cities. Thus we should remind the authorities of their importance and show them all of the benefits of the allotment gardens, and convince them to give land for allotment purposes. We seem to be too shy in these matters.

There is an obvious need to show what are the accomplishments and achievements of the allotment garden movement. We must initiate more innovative projects to show the achievements and potential of the allotment movement and also to attract new people to the gardens. It is necessary to educate the local authorities and engage the public.

It is also significant to develop a partnership with the authorities, because gardens are an essential part of the cities and communities, they are public equipments serving everyone. We must share these gardens with the communities and interact more. Therefore it is necessary to unlock the gates and open the gardens. Allotment gardens are a community within a community.