National Allotment Society Responds to Reports of 'War on Allotments'

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4 August 2025

National Allotment Society Responds to Reports of 'War on Allotments'

The National Allotment Society (NAS) is aware of recent national media reports raising concerns about the future of allotment land under the new government policy. While we understand that such coverage may cause alarm, we would like to offer reassurance and context to plot holders, supporters, and the wider public.

Importantly, there has been no change to the legal protections that apply to statutory allotments. These protections remain robust, and no statutory site can be sold or developed without going through a clearly defined legal process—one in which the National Allotment Society plays an active and formal role.

We are aware of the sites mentioned in recent reporting, and in each case, due process has been followed. In some situations, replacement land has been secured, ensuring continued opportunities for growing in those communities.

Private Sites Still Vulnerable

The recent coverage highlights a broader issue: many allotment sites in the UK do not enjoy statutory status. These privately owned sites are not protected by the same legal processes, and as a result, may be more vulnerable to sale or redevelopment.

This is a long-standing concern, and we believe it presents an opportunity for constructive discussion on how we can extend protections to more sites.

A Framework We Are Proud Of

The National Allotment Society is proud of the legislation that protects statutory allotments—a framework that has been shaped over time with the input of our organisation and our members. It is a testament to the importance of allotments in our society and the value placed on community growing spaces.

This legislation serves as a model of how communities can work with local and national government to protect green spaces for the benefit of public health, food security, and

Celebrating the Positive: National Allotments Week

Despite these concerns, there is much to celebrate. As we approach National Allotments Week (11-17 August 2025), we’re reminded of the vital role allotments play in our society. Our recent national survey reveals overwhelming public support for allotment gardening and the many benefits it provides.

Key findings include:

• 91% of respondents said they would recommend having an allotment.
• Respondents reported improvements in mental and physical health, stronger community connections, and better access to fresh, affordable food.

These results highlight that allotments are not just green spaces—they are essential community assets, supporting wellbeing, sustainability, and local resilience.

Allotments provide a meaningful social network for many, with 1 in 3 rating the social benefit a perfect 10.

• 35.6% rated the impact on their social well-being as a 10.
• 65.6% gave a score of 8 or above.

These results demonstrate that allotments are not just green spaces—they are essential community assets, supporting wellbeing, sustainability, and local resilience.

Allotments also provide a meaningful social connection:

• 35.6% of respondents rated the impact on their social wellbeing a perfect 10.
• 65.6% gave a score of 8 or above.
• While experiences vary, many highlighted the value of the relationships and community spirit developed through allotment life.

“I used to feel invisible. Now I’m part of a little world, and people know my name.”

The full survey results will be available next week, offering further insight into the value allotments bring to individuals, families, and neighbourhoods across the country.

As we celebrate National Allotments Week, we’re reminded of just how deeply rooted allotments are in the fabric of our communities. The National Allotment Society is proud to stand alongside plot holders, councils, and policymakers to protect and grow this movement for future generations.

For media enquiries or further information, please contact:

Media Contact:
Charlotte Watts
Marketing Officer, National Allotment Society
Marketing@thenas.org.uk
www.thenas.org.uk