Page 56 - ALG Issue 3 2019

North West
Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire
REPRESENTATIVE
Mr John Irwin
16 Parkdale Ave, Audenshaw, Manchester M34 5LW
0161 3207779 nw.nsalg@yahoo.co.uk
MENTOR
Vacant
Contact diane@nsalg.org.uk
if interested in volunteering with the Region
Working together at Newlands Lane
In November 2018 Newlands Lane Allotments site Workington achieved Devolved Management status. With this secured, the plotholders started work on a number of improvements. Firstly, we upgraded the main path to improve heavy vehicle access and egress. At
the same time, we approached a local infant school and care home, asking if they would like to be involved. We received very positive feedback from everyone.
The site had a semi-derelict plot, which over the years had proved difficult to
let. Following a meeting of plotholders it was agreed to develop the plot into
a heritage fruit tree and wildflower garden. We were very fortunate to receive the generous support of a
local councillor (Mr J Holliday) and
the County Council in achieving our plans for the plot. The heritage fruit trees including Apple, Pear and Plum, range from one of the oldest varieties in the world (Apple Court Pendu Plat) originating in roman times, to a relative newcomer (Pear Bristol Cross) raised in 1920. Once the wildflower meadow is established, we believe the plot will
We received very positive feedback from everyone
provide peace and tranquillity, an oasis of colour, a place to sit and enjoy the fruits of our labours.
The school children visited the site recently to plant trees, pumpkins, strawberries and assorted seeds. A return visit is already planned with a scarecrow-making competition, and once the re-grassing is complete, we expect the residents of the care home to become regular visitors as well. All the works we are undertaking will,
we hope, provide a legacy for future plotholders, making the site a place to
56 Allotment and Leisure Gardener