Useful Information for Plotholders

There are several measures that we take to help our plot holders to get the most from their plots. There are also a few rules that we ask to be observed and some requests that we make to help us to operate as a community:

 

  1. Leaf Compost

Every November, the Council Contractors who pick up leaves from our local parks and recreation grounds, deliver them to our site so that they can rot down into compost. Leaf compost is very useful for covering the ground over the winter months thereby suppressing weeds. Before planting in the Spring, digging the leaf compost into the soil greatly improves its condition and water retention qualities. Leaf compost is available to all plot holders but we ask that, in return, you lend a hand to rake back the leaves into the leaf compost bay as they are delivered.

 

  1. Bark Chippings

These are also delivered to a separate bay throughout the year and can be used to make paths or to soak up excess water in your compost heap.

 

  1. Horse Manure

A third bay has been allocated for horse manure. From time to time we invite plot holders to join a Work Party to visit one of the local stables where we can fork horse manure into a truck made available for the purpose. Although members of the work party take priority, there is usually plenty left over for others.

 

  1. Bonfires

Bonfires are allowed on your plot from 1 October to 30 April each year ( they are not allowed during the other 5 months).If you have a fire, we ask that you you burn dry material and do not blow smoke over fellow plot holders or towards the local houses.

 

  1. Watering

There are 7 water tanks on site that can be used either to dip watering cans or connect hosepipes. Water is becoing increasingly a precious and expensive commodity and we ask that you use it carefully. You can only use handheld hoses and it is against the Association's rules to leave hoses running or set up a hose on a spray. The water is usually off in the winter months to protect the pipes and taps from damage by freezing.

 

  1. Non-biodegradeable Material

If you bring any non-biodegradable material onto the allotment such as plastic sheeting for ground covering or metal it is your responsibility to take it away when you no longer need it.

 

  1. Sheds and Greenhouses

Only one 'building' is permitted on each plot - either a shed or greenhouse and the maximum size allowed is 6ft x4ft. This is a requirement of Elmbridge Borough Council in the lease agreement. If you require further clarification, please speak to a Committee Member.

 

  1. The Main Gate

The car park is for allotment holders only and the main gate can be left open when members are using it. The last driver exiting the allotment is asked to close the gate, whatever the time of the day.

 

  1. The Through Path

Although not a right of way, we allow the public to walk through the allotments to the Recreation Ground on the condition that dogs are kept on leads and that everyone keeps to the path. Please challenge any non plot holder that you observe walking amongst the plots.

 

  1. Machinery

We have a comprehensive range of machinery including 3 mowers, 2 strimmers and a tiller that we store either in the equipment container or off site and make the machines available to all plot holders. You will need the number to the combination lock to the Container. The Association supplies the fuel, which is kept in the shed. Please make sure you clean the  machines after you have used them. If you find any machines are not working properly or are broken, please let one of the committee members know so they can arrange for repairs to be carried out. As part of the allotment contract, you are also signing a disclaimer confirming you are using the equipment at your own risk.