These sites are protected under the Allotments Act 1925, which requires ministerial approval under Section 8 for any disposal. Yet these decisions were made through closed-door ministerial consent without parliamentary vote, public scrutiny, or accessible documentation.
This sets a dangerous national precedent. It signals to local authorities that protected community land can be sold off quietly, creating a domino effect across the country at a time when green space, local food, and community wellbeing have never been more vital.
What’s Wrong:
No parliamentary debate or democratic vote has occurred.
No national register of at-risk or disposed allotments has been published.
No statutory right of appeal exists for affected communities.
Decisions are being made under delegated powers with no transparency or moral accountability.
This is not “local empowerment” it’s executive overreach, eroding protections intended by law.
What’s at Stake:
Statutory allotments are not idle land. They are living ecosystems and community lifelines, offering:
Access to fresh, affordable, organic food helping families reduce living costs and eat healthily.
Mental health support, nature-based activity proven to reduce anxiety, depression, and isolation.
Biodiversity corridors, crucial habitats for bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators.
Climate resilience, improving soil health, absorbing carbon and reducing urban heat.
Intergenerational learning passing down practical skills, values of sustainability, and love of nature.
Ecological education, informal outdoor learning spaces promoting environmental awareness and stewardship.
These sites are already protected in law for good reason and those protections are being quietly dismantled.
Add Your Voice:
I, Leanne Stevenson will take this petition to Council to, Demand Swindon Borough Council safeguard allotment sites owned and operated by the Council or leased to 3rd parties, by committing to protecting them in the local plan so it is clear they are not for sale or for development.