Allotments are a safe space in times of crisis | Letter

"There are not enough allotments in Glasgow and indeed across the UK. While the company Roots and other private allotments have a place, they can never be a replacement for local authority ones. Under the 2015 Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act, Scottish local authorities have a duty to provide allotments. We need to find more space in our cities for them spaces that have been proven to improve mental and physical health, at an affordable price."

"In 1932, the Scottish allotment scheme for the unemployed was created. Plots were provided, as well as grants for seeds and tools. The scheme was not just to provide a place for growing food but also seen as preventing a mental health crisis, even though that would not have been said at the time. Plots were found on existing allotment sites, but the scheme also worked with local authorities to create new sites."

I joined every waiting list in Glasgow before becoming a plotholder, reflecting widespread demand for allotments. There are not enough allotments in Glasgow and across the UK, and private companies like Roots cannot replace local authority sites. Under the 2015 Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act, Scottish local authorities have a duty to provide allotments. Allotments improve mental and physical health at an affordable price and provided crucial safe outdoor space during Covid lockdowns. A 1932 Scottish scheme supplied plots and grants for the unemployed and worked with local authorities to create new sites. Government recognition and use of public land are needed rather than costly private provision.

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