§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to increase the number of allotments; and if he will make a statement. [121814]
§ Keith HillThe provision of allotments is determined locally by allotment authorities. The Small Holdings and Allotments Act (1908) places a duty on local authorities to provide sufficient allotments, according to local demand. In addition Planning Policy Guidance note 17: Open Space, Sport and Recreation, indicates that local authorities should assess the existing and future needs of their communities for all open spaces of public value, including allotments. Local authorities should then plan to meet those identified needs.