Page 38 - ALG Issue 4 2018

Northern
Newlands Lane Allotments Open Day
We decided to hold our open day to promote the site for a number of reasons; the site is approaching its centenary anniversary as
an allotment site. We are fast approaching the point where we
will be a self-managed site (a first in this area), and to thank all those involved over the last couple years we have spent trying to achieve this goal.
We invited the local Mayor, Mayoress, Deputy Mayor and Town Clerk to undertake a symbolic handover of the site to the newly formed management committee.
We provided an overview of the committee’s plans going forward, both short-term and long-term. These include turning a derelict plot into a heritage garden with accompanying planting of fruit trees, a wildflower meadow, raised beds of varying sizes/heights, a seating area, site storage, an eco toilet and path. The plan also includes improving the main access/egress central path and developing the community water collection system.
Thanks to a local construction company (Ashcroft Cumbria) we are in a position to complete the planned improved site access/egress, providing all weather access, something we have struggled with in the past.
The event was well supported and the buffet provided by
The Mayor, Councillor Barbara Cannon speaking with plotholders
plotholders and wives was greatly appreciated, to such an extent the Mayor was of the opinion we should make this an annual event. The feedback from visiting councillors was very positive, even the extent of comments like “Gold Standard”.
Mike Barnes, Secretary Newlands Lane Allotments
Opening of The Clyde Terrace Allotments, Community Garden in Spennymoor
On Thursday 23rd August 2018 Mayor Clive Maddison and his wife Liz Maddison Lady Mayoress, opened the community gardens by thanking everyone there.
It was two people’s dream: Mr Laurence Dunnett (Chairperson) and Mr Tommy Shaw (Secretary), along with committee and members of the Clyde Terrace Allotments. It started over four years ago when they decided to do something with the leaky garden shed. They were told it had to be knocked down, plans had to
be drawn up, and planning permission had to be applied for. Up came the bright idea: why not have a toilet? And also, make a community garden for young and old, able-bodied and disabled, to enjoy.
It took four years, with the help of three Spennymoor councillors, Pat Lawton, Ian Deldaid and Kevin Thompson, who helped with the grants and support. Tommy told me that without the funding and support there would not be a community garden.
The dream came true – they have a community garden anybody would be proud of. Livin (a community housing association) kindly constructed a gate free of charge and Spennymoor Council constructed the fence. They also have a toilet, raised flower beds, a lawn, cabin, and a flat paved area for easy disabled access. Benches allow visitors to sit and enjoy the beauty of the garden, read a paper or just chat to other residents,
helping to combat loneliness.
I was privileged to be invited to the
opening to represent the National Allotment Society on behalf of the Friends of the Community Garden. The local Vicar, Rev Matt Tarling, and local P.C.S.O. Officer Craig White also attended. Afternoon tea was provided for residents and visitors, funded by the Lady Mayoress.
Evelyn Leck, Northern Region Representative
Tommy Shaw is looking at Solar Panels for the shed to have some power to make cups of tea. If anyone would like to donate anything towards it please ring Tommy on 01388 819528.
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