Mini-allotment scheme gets under way

Plans have been revealed for a mini-allotment scheme on land behind Clifton Down shopping centre.

     It will consist of up to 46 raised-bed planters with individuals able to have up to four each enabling them to grow their own produce. 

    Clifton Down Community Association (CDCA) is behind the project saying it will provide an opportunity for people to “learn and develop their gardening skills while engaging with the community”. 

    The land is owned by Sovereign Housing Association who have entered into a Tenancy at Will agreement granting CDCA the opportunity to use the space. 

  “Sovereign have been very supportive of us in allowing this site to be used for community purposes.”  said Merche Clark of CDCA.

    The association has launched a crowd-funding page on the internet to raise an initial target of £15,000. “This will allow us to build and fill ten planters and install a metered water supply with a lidded dipping tank,” said Merche.

 “There is a growing interest in food cultivation and a significant demand in Bristol for allotments”. 

      The association is also approaching local businesses to sponsor individual planters.

CDCA says the embankments around the site will be used to plant woodland plants and native wildflowers, install bird boxes and insect hotels. 

     The association says it will develop a “fair and transparent process for allocating mini-allotments to people. 

      The overall cost for the entire project is put at between £30,000 and £50,000.