b. Community gardens and allotments

Parish and town councils can play a key role in supporting community gardening and allotment projects by:

• Allotment Provision and Management: Councils can work with local authorities and landowners to provide allotment spaces, secure funding, manage land leasing, and establish agreements with allotment holders. They ensure fair allocation and can sometimes offer support, including resources like water, tools, and composting although there is no legal requirement for this.

• Community Garden Development: Councils can assist in the creation of community gardens on public or private land by guiding community groups on site selection, design, and securing permits. They can also partner with schools, businesses, and organizations to boost community involvement.

• Funding and Grants: Councils can allocate funds or provide grants for gardening projects, helping to cover costs like equipment, supplies, and ongoing maintenance. They can also assist groups in applying for external funding from government or charitable sources.

• Education and Training: Councils can offer workshops and training on gardening skills, sustainable practices, and food production. They can partner with gardening experts and local organizations to provide education on topics such as soil care, pest management, and composting.

• Promotion and Outreach: Councils can promote gardening initiatives through outreach efforts like social media, newsletters, and community events, including open days and garden tours. They can also engage schools, youth groups, and local organizations to encourage diverse, intergenerational participation in community gardening projects.

The Local Government Association has two publications which are comprehensive resources -

 Growing in the community    A place to grow