§ Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what his policy is on the use of allotment land for open space; and if he will make a statement. [133236]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Government believe that informal recreation spaces, such as allotments and community gardens, are important for maintaining the quality of people's lives and contribute to healthy and sustainable neighbourhoods. We consider it important that 937W people should have access to such spaces and lands close to where they live, and attach high importance to retaining such spaces particularly in urban areas.
Local Authorities, other than inner London Boroughs, are under a duty to provide and let allotments where they are of the opinion that there is a demand for them. Inner London Boroughs have a discretionary power to provide allotments. Section 8 of the Allotments Act 1925 requires local authorities to obtain the Secretary of State's consent for the sale or appropriation of statutory allotments. Consent can be granted only where adequate alternative provision is made for any affected plot holders, and the number of people on any waiting list is taken into account when making this decision.