Page 57 - ALG Issue 1 2016 No social share

An example of why
Allotment Societies need
to monitor and contribute to Local Plans
Craven Vale Allotment site in Brighton is a piece of countryside in the city; linked to the South Downs to the north, this nger of green space pushing into the urban conurbation is home to lizards, slow worms, dragon ies, great green bush crickets and even badgers. Its 173 well-maintained plots are connected by a rough track which rises through the middle of the site. The stunning views of the sea, Downs and racecourse progressively get more and more breathtaking the higher up you get.
Now, however, this idyllic site is under threat. Earlier this year, Brighton and Hove City Council commissioned consultants
to conduct an assessment of the City’s Urban Fringe Sites as to their suitability for housing. Craven Vale has been identi ed as one of two allotment sites in the city that could be built on in the future.
Plot holders on the site have not taken the decision lying down though. Since the announcement, they have galvanised support for the allotments, starting a petition, lobbying local politicians, getting local press onside and setting up a Facebook page to share their updates. They also recently formed a new society, linking up with the
adjoining Whitehawk Hill
allotments and recruiting
members to join their
campaign. The recent
purchase of a metal
shipping container will mean the site will soon have a community ‘hub’ which will be used as a meeting place and shop for the sale and hire of gardening equipment and materials.
To show your support for Craven Vale Allotments, please sign their petition:
http://www.ipetitions. com/petition/save-craven-vale-brighton-
allotments
You can follow their updates at: www.
facebook.com/savecravenvaleallotments.
Nicky Fry
Welcome to our new members...
7 Individual members
Now, however, this idyllic site is under threat
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