New Plotholder’s
Guide
A brief summary of main points in Tenancy Agreement for beginners.
Our aim is for you to enjoy your plot and the produce you grow on it, but you do need to work on it as advised (it isn’t as easy or quick as the television programmes make it seem!). Also observe the rules for the good of all on the rest of the site. Full details are in the tenancy agreement. These are the answers to questions often asked:
Site representative/manager is the first point of contact – details here and on site noticeboards. Check these noticeboards for other information too.
Padlocks on site gates – not to be left in open position; key to be taken out only when padlock is closed. Gates must be locked after entry and exit.
Shed/greenhouses allowed, but you must consult the site rep/manager first for rules and position.
No plastic or carpet allowed for weed suppressing. No tyres.
No communal tipping area on the site – weeds must be composted or bagged up and removed responsibly in line with local regulations. Plots must always be cultivated to a minimum 75%.
Bonfires only allowed between 01 October and 31 March. Please consider your neighbours re wind direction.
Nothing to be brought onto the plot that is not for the purpose of growing – tempting though it can seem that something might be useful! Check with site manager if unsure.
We encourage and like to see your children learning to grow fresh produce, but you must ensure that they stay on your plot and within your sight. Allotment sites are not play areas and can have hidden hazards – their safety is vital and your responsibility.
Paths around plots are communal and must be jointly maintained with your neighbouring plot holder. Paths must not be undermined by digging away at the edges or weed killing.
Use water wisely and adhere to any restrictions advised at any time. Best to obtain rain water from your shed or greenhouse, nothing better. If using water from tanks, using a watering can is best for accurate watering.
A tenancy agreement and invoice will be sent to you. The agreement must be signed and must be returned by the due date, two weeks after renting the plot, together with the payment, to confirm your tenancy of the plot. The Tenancy Agreement must be adhered to.
We produce newsletters several times a year, and have open meetings with progress/finance reports in June and our Awards evening in October/November each year.
Allotment land is owned by Maidstone Borough Council and managed voluntarily by Maidstone Allotments Management Committee.
If you would like to have an allotment plot please contact us – using the details below, we will record your details and contact you when a plot available.
Your name, address, post code, e mail address and a contact telephone number are all required before we can proceed. These are protected under our GDPR policy.
