Page 44 - ALG Issue 4 2024

WEST MIDLANDS
ALLOTMENT INTERVIEW What does it take to be an Allotment Chair and Secretary?
In 2015 there was talk of creating new allotments in the south Warwickshire village of Fenny Compton; 18 months later after many discussions and following the results of the Parish Plan, the plots began to take shape. Here we speak with Fenny Compton Allotment Association Chair, Simon Gooding and Secretary, Roly Whear about their roles and find out how they worked to bring these new allotments to life.
When and how did the committee and allotments come into being?
Roly: The committee was formed under the guidance of our parish council in 2015/16.There was a requirement for a separate management company which was incorporated in 2017 and registered at Companies House. Committee members also act as directors and guarantors.We file a Confirmation Statement each year.
Roly, how did you become secretary? Roly: The association needed one and no one else was willing to take it on!
And Simon, how did you become chair? Simon: I’m not really sure...! But I have been since conception.
How long did the process take?
Roly: Years. It was a long wait for a small housing development to be completed then 18 months from when we were first given access to the land.
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What happened next?
Simon: Once the committee was established, we were offered the corner of a field which we had to mark up and turn into allotments ourselves.
Who did the physical work to create the site?
Simon: I marked up the plots.
Roly: The fencing was contracted and a ground-worker gave the plots an initial dig over.
Was there a good uptake of plots?
Roly: Yes. Sold out well ahead of moving in.
And how many plots are there?
Simon: We have 18 strips divided in half, so 36 in all, most uphill, with clay soil so beloved by gardeners everywhere.
Is there much turnover of plots?
Roly: Steady - usually 2 to 3 a year, oddly mainly newer ones.
Simon: Although many have installed raised beds which helps with drainage and access.
How much time would you say you each give in the administration of your role? Simon: Not much!
Roly: Surprisingly little, couple of hours a month if that.
What’s the hardest part of your roles? Roly: Dealing with issues such as neglected plots etc.
Simon: I agree.Trying to get people to maintain their plots, edges and pathways whilst keeping it light and friendly.
Have you had to update your Constitution? Roly: No but we need to this year to reset the AGM date.
Do you enjoy your roles?
Simon and Roly: Yes!
What would you say are the main skills
needed to be secretary?
Roly: Good people skills, keeping ahead of the paperwork etc.The year runs on a regular cadence and it’s about being proactive rather than reactive.
And to be chair?
Simon: Diplomacy, tenacity and screwdrivers for thumbs. Seriously though, leaning on a fork chatting, getting things done and having to deal with various authorities.
Interview by Jacci Gooding
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