This Labour led City Council continues its commitment to allotments. An impressive 1,485 allotments are in use across the City.

The allotment holders make great use of them. They grow fresh fruit, vegetables and in some cases flowers. Many enjoy the fresh air and camaraderie although that has been hit a bit by the pandemic, but will soon bounce back.

Being out in the open air, working with the land and exercising is good for your mental and physical health. According to the National Allotment Society, just 30 minutes of work on your allotment can burn around 150 calories, the same as doing low impact aerobics.

Allotments are good for the environment because growing your own food will reduce your personal carbon footprint compared to shop-bought alternatives – and you will limit the packaging used.

Growing organic vegetables will also benefit the environment as you help limit the amount of pesticides and other harmful chemicals in the soil.

As many new plot-holders discover, growing vegetables requires acquiring new knowledge and skills and the satisfaction gained from eating their first home grown tomato or new potato makes them taste even more delicious!

Cllr David Harvey said “I simply love my allotment with its views over the City and out to sea. Eating home grown veg is simply fantastic.  All for 71 p a week, well done Exeter Labour!”

For less than the cost of bag of potatoes a week allotment holders enjoy fenced and secure plot, water onsite and maintenance of the paths and car parks

Many allotments have active associations which make use of a Trading Shed to distribute discounted materials, compost and soil improvers of different types, as well as membrane as weed suppressant etc.

A number of allotments also have specifically built plots in order to cater for disabled people and there is a growing demand for this service.

Currently there are 39 vacant plots however there is a waiting list, but its still worth registering your interest.

You can get lots information from the onsite Allotment Associations and from The City Councils Parks and Open Spaces team.

https://exeter.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/parks-and-open-spaces/allotments/overview