Allotments are much more than places to grow vegetables – they are good for people, good for communities and good for wildlife, according to the Chair of Wymondham Allotment Association.

Kevin Stuart has thrown the Association's support behind plans for a new allotment site on land north of Tuttles Lane West, Wymondham, under South Norfolk Council planning application 2026/2374. He and his committee colleagues emphasised these points at last month's busy public meeting at Fairland Hall.

"The proposed site could provide a major boost for the local community and deliver important health and environmental benefits.

“Allotments are one of those community assets where everybody can benefit. They give people somewhere to grow fresh food, get active, enjoy the outdoors and meet other people.

“For many allotment holders, tending a plot is an important part of their physical and mental wellbeing. It gets people outside, keeps them active and provides a real sense of achievement from growing something yourself."

He believes the benefits don't stop with the people who have an allotment.

"Allotment sites can be fantastic for biodiversity, providing flowers, plants, hedges and other habitats for bees, butterflies, birds and a whole range of wildlife.

“In an increasingly built-up environment, we should be looking for opportunities to protect and create green spaces. A well-managed allotment site can be a productive growing area and a haven for nature at the same time.”

At the old Chapel Lane allotments, holders regularly exchanged gardening knowledge, seeds, plants and produce, while new growers benefitted from the experience of established gardeners.

Kevin said, “There's a great community spirit around allotments. People help each other, share advice and often share their surplus produce. It brings together people from different backgrounds and different generations. That social side is just as important as growing the food.”

He believes the proposed Tuttles Lane West site provides an opportunity to create a long-term community asset for Wymondham.

“We recognise that South Norfolk Council has to consider all aspects of the planning application carefully. However, from the perspective of the Allotment Association, we strongly support the principle of providing this new facility.

“This isn't simply about providing somewhere for people to grow vegetables. It is about creating a healthier community, supporting biodiversity, encouraging people outdoors and providing a place where people can connect.

“We hope the wider benefits of the proposal will be recognised when the planning application is considered.”