GMSF - Jeff's report

Our Chair - Jeff Gibson has devoted considerable time to scanning the GMSF documents currently available - he has drawn the current conclusions

I have reviewed the GMSF map to determine if any of our 37 Allotment Sites are under treat from proposed Housing Development 2014/2035.

It would have been much easies if the GMSF Web site had their proposed developments indicated with a Post Code but I suppose that would be too easy, However the following are my observations.

 Chequerbent Allotments  BL5 3JD,  3 Plots Not Statutory  Site. not Members of Abas
Remarks
These 3 plots appear to be within the Perimeter of the Westhoughton Parkland 3 , 103.9ha , ID 1453731805946 proposed Development and as so "At Risk"

 Dealey Road Allotments BL3 4NA,  25 Plots Statutory Site and Members of Abas
 Remarks
Proposed Housing Developments 973-Bol 2014/19, and 1308-Bol 1014/19 are on two sides of the Allotments Fence line and consideration should be given for adequate Secure Fencing.

Lever Park Allotments  Horwich, BL6 7LU, 32 Plots Statutory Site  and Member of Abas
Remarks
Proposed Housing Development call for Sites Winter 2015/16 Submission 1453220474434, 3.07ha of land comes up to one of the Allotments Fence Line and consideration should be given for adequate Secure Fencing

Longworth Road Allotments Horwich BL6 7BE , 18 Plots Statutory Site   Not Members of Abas but have an OMA
Remarks
This Site is "OK" but we must be aware the nearby Private Site is earmarked for Housing Development Ref 577-BOL

 Sapling Road Allotments BL3 3EB , 61 Plots Statutory Site  Members of Abas
Remarks
There is an Housing Development Plan # 1453214036932 , 6.21ha [ Off Slack Fold Lane ] which borders along the entire boundary fence line of the Allotment Site and consideration should be given for adequate Secure Fencing

 Tonge Fold  Allotments  BL2 6BJ  38 Plots Non Statutory Site
Remarks
There are two proposed Housing Developments 2014/35  1222-BOL one will be on the Health Centre and the other is the near by  Romer Street Works and consideration should be given for adequate Secure Fencing

Cross St Allotments - does anyone know the location of these?

Hall Lea Bank Westhoughton  BL5 3DD 1 Plot
No Map and not visible on Google Maps  

AVIAN FLU

NOTICE TO ALL POULTRY KEEPERS

DEFRA have issued an instruction that all poultry (in whatever size flock) should be kept indoors if possible or at least out of contact with wild birds from December 7th 2016 to January 6th 2017.

This is because of a fear of a new strain of avian flu, being spread from continental Europe through migrating birds.

Poultry keepers are advised to keep a close watch on their flocks.

GMSF SPATIAL FRAMEWORK

PRESS RELEASE RECEIVED FROM CLLR. SUSAN HAWORTH 30/11/2016

November 29, 2016

Drop-in events for Spatial Framework

A series of drop-in events about the draft Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) will be held in Bolton.

The GMSF sets out how much housing and employment land is needed up to the year 2035 and identifies a number of strategic sites across Greater Manchester to help in meeting these requirements.

In Bolton around two thirds – 10,000 - of the proposed 16,400 homes are proposed on urban sites, the majority of which are brownfield.

Bolton has worked with other Greater Manchester local authorities to produce the joint plan and the public are being invited to attend a drop-in event to find out more about the GMSF. The drop-ins will be an opportunity to meet with council officers on a one to one level.

The drop-in events are as follows:

·        Carnegie Hall, Market Street, Westhoughton, BL5 3AE, from 3pm – 7.30pm, on Thursday, December 8.

·        Friends Meeting House, Silverwell Street, Bolton, BL1 1PP, from 3pm – 7.30pm, on Tuesday, December 13.

·        Bromley Cross Village Hall, Darwen Road, BL7 9JG, from 3pm – 7.30pm, on Thursday, December 15.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Cllr Ebrahim Adia, said: “The Greater Manchester Spatial framework is designed to ensure that we are able to meet the economic development and housing needs for our borough in a planned and strategic way. This has been prompted by changes in Government policy which has increased house building targets for local authorities.

“Our focus in Bolton remains on ensuring we develop our brownfield sites first, and most of the sites that have been put forward for the framework are on urban or brownfield sites. However, there this is still a shortage of housing sites and it does mean that some areas of greenfield, greenbelt and protected open land are being considered for future development. We understand residents’ concerns about development on greenbelt and this is why we are consulting.  

 “Our intention is to develop a long term strategy where development is supported with the requisite infrastructure, rather than ad-hoc development on greenbelt through the appeals process.”

Public consultation on the draft GMSF runs from October 31 to 5pm, December 23, 2016.

For further information on the consultation, and to view and download the documents, visit www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/gmsf.

Responses to the consultation can also be made online at: Greater Manchester Spatial Framework - Consultation portal, by e-mail to gmsf@agma.gov.uk; or by post to: Greater Manchester Integrated Support Team, PO Box 532, Town Hall, Manchester, M60 2LA.

< ABAS is drafting letters to the relevant planning authorities in Bolton and in Greater Manchester setting out our views. These will appear on this blogsite in the near future.

An initial scan of the GMSF information to date by Jeff Gibson suggests that certain small sites in the Westhoughton area may be at greatest risk. We intend to check. >

NWCAA NEWSLETTER DECEMBER

For those of our members who don't get the NWCAA Newsletter we're providing this edited version

NWCAA December 

Newsletter
The Newsletter is an important way for us to keep everyone updated with what’s happening on NW allotments throughout the year. We would encourage the recipient of the newsletter to share it with as many of their association members as possible.
Our aim in 2017 is to increase NAS membership in the NW. We can only do this with your help, support and knowledge of your local area. Please join with us to spread the NAS message to protect, promote and preserve allotments for future generations.
We would like to update those members who have kindly passed on get well messages to our Chairman Alan Hull. Thankfully his heart surgery has gone well and he is feeling much better and well on the way to making a full recovery. Our best wishes go to both Alan and Ellen Get well soon Alan!

Our last forum meeting was held on the 23rd October hosted by Salford Federation, where various allotment issues were discussed. For those of you who don’t know, these meetings are made up of all NW NAS association and affiliated Federation representatives and held four times a year in locations around the region. If you have any issues you would like to be taken to the next meeting in January, please contact our secretary nwcsecandrea@gmail.com

Despite the fact that allotments have been in use for a very long time, these last couple of years have seen a rebirth of interest in allotments, brought about by a whole range of factors, GM food, the use of pesticides and additives, the exposure of the population to gardening programmes on TV, making it all look dead easy! and now a threat to rising food prices. As a result every allotment up and down the country is teeming with life and has a waiting list. Unfortunately we also have austerity measures being imposed by local authorities who are scratching their heads trying to find locations for new house building. As a consequence allotment sites in many areas could now be at risk. As members of NAS in 2017 we all now more than ever have a responsibility to support each other and fight these threats and in so doing help save a valuable and productive resource for our local communities
Your chance to speak

Let's talk Allotments in 2017
Dear members
Well we're into Winter with the first frosts hitting us in Nov and even the threat of snow when writing this message. We are coming to the end of another eventful year across the region and its great to see the increase of activities on our sites including plant sales , open days, produce and flower shows,  community bbq's and social events. Right across the region we have sites with long waiting lists. Allotments have now become a great family hobby , long gone the old style of allotments and we welcome the changes. More families with young children and more community groups which in some cases can bring you funding , while I mention funding dont forget to apply for Tesco's Bags of Help , only last week I was told that this is an ongoing monthly application. Providing its for a different project you can apply as many times as you wish regardless of successful previous applications and in some areas the number of applications are low, so get yours in for your site and you could get up to £5k.
I personally want to send my thanks to the NWC team who work hard behind the scenes supporting allotments on your behalf,sometimes we hit brick walls or dont give people the answer they like but we try our best to offer the correct advice at the time. This Year has had its ups and downs and I'm so pleased that our Chairman has had his heart surgery and is now home and on the road to recovery. Your  patience and understanding this year has helped the team to continue and we hope during 2017 to see more of you at our forum meetings.
I would again like to ask for your support to secure me as your next President in the forthcoming election in 2017, please watch out for details and a voting paper. Never before, since the sad news of the loss of the Farm Terrace plotholders battle to preserve their historic allotment site, is it more important that we unite and stay strong for the battles that may come our way locally and nationally if and when allotment sites start to be forced to close for development. These sites are our heritage, they were our food survival during and after the war and have remained at the heart of communities ever since and we need to fight to ensure they remain as such.
So please, VOTE Andy Percival for President.

On a lighter and festive note as 2016 comes to an end may Alan , myself and the rest of the team wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas , Festive Cheer , Happiness and a Great Growing Season for 2017 and we look forward to seeing you all next year.
Merry Christmas & A Peaceful New Year  Andy Percival 2

Thank you to our sponsor for 2016

At J Maher Limited we pride ourselves on the service we offer, with our friendly helpful staff willing to assist our customers with their needs. Our delivery service includes putting product into garages, sheds or back gardens as we appreciate products can be heavy or awkward to carry.
If you are fed up with the poor service and lack of knowledge provided by the bigger stores, why not give us a try. After all we are probably cheaper on most items anyway. jmaher.co.uk

Greater Manchester Spatial Framework
Draft Salford Local Plan
A bold plan to establish new homes, jobs and green space across Greater Manchester over the next 20 years is being considered by council leaders. The Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF) is a joint plan between the ten local authorities to manage growth and land allocation sustainably. It has been created to make sure that new homes, jobs and transport links are in the right places leaving space for economic and cultural growth as the city-region continues to grow over the next few decades. Without the plan the allocation of land would not be controlled and developments would happen in places that would not benefit local communities. And to account for the population increase the plan is to make sure there is enough amenities and social provision within the city. It is estimated that Salford needs 34,000 extra homes to cope with future demand based on national and economic forecasts – with 193,000 homes needed across the rest of Greater Manchester. Salford City Council already has plans for where most of those homes will be built. Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “Greater Manchester is growing fast so we need to manage the supply of land. In Salford we have identified brownfield sites that would be best for development to save our most valuable green spaces. Salford Allotment Federation The Federation is recommending that within the development of the dwellings, the planning will include 15 allotments per 1000 dwellings as per the 1968 Thorpe report or preferred 20 allotments per 1000 dwellings as recommended by the National Allotment Society this due to the fact that the dwellings will consist of apartments with no gardens whatsoever. We would point out that the 34,000 extra homes for Salford are made up of 30% houses and 70% apartments. Don Booth Chair Salford Allotment Federation

Farm Terrace loses battle
“We the farm terrace allotment holders are bitterly disappointed that the Judge did not find for our case against the government and Watford Borough Council. This has been a very long, very emotional battle for us. We feel that at every stage where we have won the rules have been changed to make it increasingly difficult for us. This judgement is in our view, a developers charter for development on any allotment site and in particular threaten urban allotments that have become targets for redevelopment which makes us extremely worried about the ramifications of this case for all allotments. We still believe that the remits of ‘Exceptional Circumstances’ have still not been fully clarified nor explained and that there is no clear bench mark for what is actually exceptional. We feel the term can and will be applied to close other allotment sites throughout the country and we are being made aware almost every week that a new allotment site is under threat of closure for development. Most recently Northfields Allotments in Ealing, London's oldest surviving allotment is facing the same threat of being built on thanks to plans by its landlord to construct a new housing development on part of the allotment site. We are particularly concerned about the future of urban allotments which mirrors our own case in that allotments can now be offered as a ‘blank cheque’ to cash hungry developers and councils. As we have said many times, Watford Council have stated that Farm Terrace allotments are not surplus to requirements. Unfortunately, the council have now been given the opportunity to do whatever they want with this land, be it a car park, expensive housing or yet more flats. After consulting with our loyal legal team, we have come to the very difficult decision not to appeal against this decision. This is the end of the road for us and many tenants will be handing their keys back to the council by Friday this week, some of whom have worked this land for decades. Unfortunately the council had portrayed the allotment tenants as being selfish when all we wanted was to preserve the site not just for us but for future tenants of West Watford. Needless to say it is heart breaking, especially as Farm Terrace has been in existence since 1882.  We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our supporters near and far and our prestigious legal team at Deighton Pierce Glynn and team of Barristers who could not have worked harder for us or for the protection of all allotments. We now leave the defence and protection on England’s Allotment sites to the National Allotment Society to take forward who we hope will work hard to safeguard other sites. In our view our case would have remained strong if it had not been for the revising of the allotment disposal guidance in January 2014 that weakened allotment protection. A number of tenants will also ask the council that those wishing to relocate to other local sites be relocated together as much as possible to ensure a sense of community is retained. We would hope that this message is considered especially as the Council ‘claims’ to place great importance to how it values community spirit and cohesion within Watford. We could not be prouder of ourselves and our supporters who have battled so tirelessly against this immoral and illogical act. We feel we have done ourselves proud but this is still a very hard day for everyone involved.
The last meeting of the Farm Terrace Association finished with 'one for the road'. We are so proud of what we stood for and we thank you all for all your support!

Grow For Giving -
Rooted in Community
Humble Beginnings Growing Stronger Everyday!
Grow for Giving project is a non profit community organisation
and was established on plot number 118 'The Patchwork Plot'
in 2013 by Eunan Jones, a keen multi-skilled allotment
gardener and Committee member of Tyldesley allotment
association.  Eunan realised that many of the 144 plot tenants
had surplus food left over after each growing season, fresh food
that would end up on the compost heap. Eunan asked
the tenants to consider donating it rather than waste it. From a
wheel barrow full of donated produce to the varied horticultural
project we are today!   Since our humble beginning the project
is now coordinated and being developed  by Pamela Jones
Brown, Eunan Jones & Cal McKenna, who make up Secretary,
Chairperson & Treasurer.  All are Disclosure and Barring
Service (DBS  formerly CRB) cleared and are committed to
safeguarding our vulnerable adults, children and young people.
All 3 have personal experience of dementia and/or learning
disabilities. Cal & Pamela come from a long background of
working direct with people and managing projects giving Grow
for Giving the strong foundation from which to grow.
Check our website pages for what we offer and planned events. growingforgiving.org

Eden Gardens. Whitefields. Manchester.
Eden Gardens allotment in collaboration with I Will if You Will, Hillock Garden Club and St Michael's Parish Hall organised bulb planting sessions on the green outside the allotments to improve  the environment on a large social housing estate. The hundreds of bulbs were, with permission, collected earlier  this year  from a Local Authority Depot and which would otherwise have been composted. Approximately 30 people turned up on two dates in October to improve the environment and their own health through gardening.The Mayor of Bury and his Consort joined us at one of the sessions and genuinely mucked in despite the regalia. Everyone was rewarded with tea and biscuits in our comunal cabin afterwards. To complete the series of events there will be a trip to a local park on 13 Dec, where we will collect greenery under the supervision of a park warden, followed by mulled wine a hot lunch and  Christmas wreath and table decoration making with the collected greenery. This so popular that there are already nearly 50 people on the list.

Grants of up to £1,000 for schools and communities
One Stop, the chain of convenience stores, is offering ‘Carriers for Causes’ grants to help support projects that benefit local communities and to help improve lives and local places.
Carriers for Causes grants are funded through the money raised from the 5p bag charge in England, Wales and Scotland and are available for causes within two miles of a One Stop shop.
The scheme is being administered by environmental charity Groundwork, who are encouraging communities to come together and create something special in their local area, making it a better place to live.
The types of projects funded will be very broad and will cover the direct costs needed to deliver the project. This could be buying plants, gravel, benches, grass seed, spades and forks to plant up a new

Just Act
£50,000 of extra funding for community projectsCrowdfunder is making great things happen in communities
across England and Wales. Just Act, the trusted online community that helps people who
want to make a difference in their local area, has now become
part of the Crowdfunder family.
Like us it believes in communities working together and
provides all the tools and know-how to bring ideas to life.
Because we've taken over the day-to-day running of the
website we've created the Just Act Community Fund,
distributing £50,000 to community projects across England
and Wales.
We'll be adding up to 50% of the funding target to a maximum
of £1,000 to volunteer-led community projects that will
change lives for the better.
We anticipate high demand and the funds are available on a
first-come, first-served basis - so apply now.
There’s never been a better time to crowdfund.

Apply for funding for community projects
Contact your council for information about community-based funding and grants for projects like activities for young people, volunteer programmes and development of communal facilities.

Apply for Funding Viridor Credits runs three funding schemes in England and Wales, and one in Scotland. Small Grants Scheme
The Small Grants Scheme is for Community, Heritage and Biodiversity projects that require up to £20,000 from Viridor Credits. Main Grants Scheme
The Main Grants Scheme is for Community, Heritage or Biodiversity projects that require £20,001-50,000 from Viridor Credits. Large Grants Scheme
The Large Grants Scheme is Viridor Credits' biggest funding band and the most competitive. This scheme is for Community, Heritage or Biodiversity projects that require £50,001-100,000 from Viridor Credits.
http://www.viridor-credits.co.uk/apply-for-funding/
Check out Funding advice http://www.nwcallotmentassociation.com/lets-look-forfunding.html

Eden Gardens. Whitefields. We are delighted to have received an Outstanding Award from the RHS at a recent Britain in Bloom NW presentation in Southport.
Diggle Lane Allotments certificate for the RHS sponsored 2016 Britain in Bloom NW Neighbourhood Awards category

We are looking to help small, local community projects and groups through our GALAXY Hot Chocolate Fund.
From November 7th 2016 until February 26th 2017, we are seeking to award a total of seventy, £300 donations to help community groups and people across UK and Ireland.
Five donations will be awarded each week, four by our panel of judges and one through the People’s Choice award to the organisation with the most weekly votes.
Galaxyhotchocolate.com
GALAXY Hot Chocolate Fund 2016/17

Supporting warm-hearted people and projects
Three local community projects will be voted on in Tesco stores each month across Tesco regions throughout England, Scotland and Wales. In each region, the project that received the most votes from all stores in their region will receive a grant of up to £5,000. The second placed project receives up to £2,000 and third placed up to £1000. Every year, over 7000 projects will receive funding through this scheme. Groundworks.org.uk

Happy Christmas & Best Wishes For 2017 From the NWCAA TEAM To All NAS Members & Supporters nwcallotmentassociation.com

ADDITIONAL MATERIAL FROM JEFF GIBSON

Bolton’s Allocations Plan [Housing and Employment Land] 2014/2026

Bolton’s Housing Target is 10,728 Dwellings at 694 pa with no mention of potential threats to Allotments.

Greater Manchester Spatial Fame Work [Housing and Employment Land] 2016/2036 with Potential for 220,000 Dwellings

Initial Consultation 31^st Oct 2016 till 23^rd Dec 16 [8 weeks]

Bolton is One of the 10 GM Councils which needs to build some 16,800 Dwellings which includes the previously mentioned 10,728 dwellings.

In reviewing this Initial plan indications are many potential building sites are still to be indicated and approved by planning.
However there is the mention of the “North Bolton Strategic Opportunity Area” where Additional Housing could be built with the potential of 3000 Holmes in around 15 Locations.
This area which is North of  Moss Bank Way and East to Harwood,  at this point of time there is little information as to where there houses will be built !!!
The Next Consultation Plans will be issued during 2017

The Committee would recommend Abas

continue to review GMSF Plan and respond where necessary.

discuss/Co-ordinate with Salford Allotments Federation [Don Booth] any common strategies and responses to the GMSF Plan
(In Accordance with the NAS guidelines),  request that Additional Allotments be made available at the rate of 20 Allotments per 1000 Dwellings Built [ Thorpe] which has the potential for an additional 320 Allotments in Bolton who has currently some 400 on the Allotments Waiting List

Jeff Gibson

Chair Association of Bolton Allotment Societies [Abas]
12^th November 2016

Please note: By 'plot' or 'allotment' the NAS mean a piece of ground of approximately 250 square metres. In Salford's Plan the figure used is 5,000 square metres of allotment space per 1000 new dwellings. We prefer the use of this overall space figure since it offers the flexibility to offer a range of plot sizes..

IRENE PENNINGTON'S PRESENTATION AT THE AGM

                                vandals and thieves. We have also had problems with flytipping.

Sorry about the quality of this post - my computer is having one of its days - Dave

AGM Minutes

THE ABAS AGM 2016

(Held at Astley Bridge Cricket Club, Bolton 14/11/2016)

The AGM was attended by 38 members representing 18 sites

Part 1: Presentations

Part 2: AGM Business Meeting

Part One:

Introduction by Jeff Gibson (Chair Abas)
Presentation by Irene Pennington (Tonge Moor Rd.)
Presentation by Malcolm Russell, Head of Service, Neighbourhood Services, Bolton MBC

We shall publish edited summaries of the above two presentations as soon as they are available.

Part Two:

The AGM

Minutes of the 2015 AGM

The minutes of the 2015 AGM having been published on www.abas2014.blogspot.co.uk for an appropriate time (since 2/12/2015), the Committee moved that the minutes be accepted. This motion was accepted.

Matters Arising from the Minutes 2015

• Rise in Subscription Rates – subscriptions are now £1 per member
• Allotments Competitions – were run in 2016
• Onion, Leek and Vegetable Show – was run on 20/08/2016 as requested
• Progress Meetings with the Council – Regular Meetings have been held with the Council, reports of these meetings are placed on abas2014.blogspot.co.uk e.g. from the 14/10/2016 meeting. There is also regular email communication
• Register of Issues – an attempt has been made to keep a register of issues raised and the results but no formal matrix has yet been created (apologies)
• Sales of Produce – an ‘agreement’ has been struck with the Council about Societies selling produce to fund-raise. Details were published on abas2014.blogspot.co.uk
• NWCAA – the NWCAA held its Jan 2016 Forum in Bolton. Representatives of GMP spoke on Allotment Crime. Although many efforts have since been made to raise the profile of allotment crime they have not yet as proved successful. A report of the most recent NWCAA Forum will be made later in the meeting

External Matters

Essentially Abas acts as the independent voice of Bolton plot-holders
However, Abas exists within a wider allotment community
So in some respects, abas acts as the District level of the National Allotment Society, in NAS terms abas is a “federation”
Above District level, the regional level of the NAS is the NWCAA – this holds quarterly forums at various venues in the North West at which abas is represented and from which our representatives report back
Nationally the NAS provides a range of services (most importantly legal advice and information about government policy) which abas (and individuals and individual societies can tap into). Abas has not to date usually attended the NAS AGM.

Treasurer’s Report

The acceptance of the accounts was moved by the Hon President and seconded by the Hon Vice President.

Election of Officers

Hon President (Richard Hayes)
Hon Vice President (George Wild)
The above posts were confirmed:

The Officers are:

Chair (currently Jeff Gibson)
Treasurer (currently Terry Farrell)
Secretary (currently Dave Jackson)
All the above were returned unopposed.

In addition:

Carole Deplitch and Teresa Morris were returned unopposed as Committee members and Phil Warren and Alan Kay were elected as new Committee members.

Abas membership

In 2016 abas membership stood at 501 members on 16 sites and 14 of the 15 OMA sites were in membership.
Sites in membership of abas represented over 50% of all plot-holders in the Borough
Figures are not yet available for 2016 as some sites have not as yet paid their subs.
It is vital that we keep membership levels at above 50% of all eligible plot-holders as this gives us our legitimacy as the Council’s nominated representative body for plot-holders in Bolton
Target Areas for this year are: Horwich sites, non-OMA sites and smaller sites

Competitions

The meeting agreed that:

• Abas again runs the Bolton Allotments Competitions in 2017
• Abas again holds the Bolton Onion, Leek and Vegetable Show in 2017.

There was some debate as to the most suitable date, the Committee will discuss this over the winter break.

Talks and Lectures

The members agreed that Abas should organise a programme of talks and lectures in 2017.

It was suggested that an event aimed at new entrants to Allotment Gardening be held with the content concentrating on “the basics”.

Progress Meetings

The meeting mandated the Committee to continue to hold regular Progress Meetings with the Council to address the ‘Site Refresher Matrix’ and try to settle outstanding concerns and issues.

Feedback from the NWCAA Meeting 23/10/2016

Insurance – it had been said at the above meeting that Shield’s quotes may no longer be competitive and that Society Treasurers should get a variety of quotes to ensure that they are getting a good deal. Abas would add that they should be careful to get clear statements of exactly what is being covered and on what terms and conditions to ensure a like with like comparison

There was some mention of limited funds being available from the Membership Rebate made by the National to NWCAA which could be used to provide grants for members. Member Societies may wish to follow this up during the Winter Break. The total amount across the North-West is unlikely to exceed £2000.

The NWCAA Executive expressed concern about a lack of feedback from Societies / Federations and their members and further expressed concern as to whether messages were being passed down by secretaries and committees to their membership. Abas tries to pass on items from NWCAA (and the National) by placing them on the ‘blog’.

As a consequence of the meeting, Jeff Gibson has established a link with the Salford Federation about which we shall speak more under the Greater Manchester Spatial Plan.

Greater Manchester Spatial Plan

Studies of the Bolton Allocations Plan and the North Bolton Strategic Opportunity Area Plan have not identified any specific threats to allotments sites

However the Greater Manchester Spatial Plan is now inviting developers to suggest sites that may be used for housing

Cllr Cliff Morris has also stated that certain (unspecified green-land) sites particularly in the North of the Borough may have to be made available for housing development if government targets are to be met.

Although no immediate threats to sites have been identified, there remains a risk that if sites become run down, if we have too many vacant plots etc. the Council or developers may see the opportunity to reallocate / requisition those sites for housing. The NAS has publicised the case of the Farm Terrace site in Watford, a well-managed, well-used site taken for development, which demonstrates that none of us can be complacent.

Consequently, abas is entering into meetings to share information etc. with other Federations e.g. Salford and to keep a watch on developments. The meeting endorsed this initiative and supported Jeff in maintaining contact.

We shall be publishing additional comments etc. by Jeff on this blog-site.

On the subject of development, the NAS has been promoting guidelines that more houses should also mean increased allotment provision. A suggestion of 20 plots per 1000 additional dwellings has been made.

AOB

The question of how a site secretary should respond if a prospective tenant declines a plot that is offered was raised. This question was raised due to a small number of applicants at the head of the waiting list repeatedly refusing plots meaning that each time a plot becomes vacant the secretary potentially has to go through the offer / refusal process with them before a tenant who will take the plot is reached.

The first step is to enquire whether the applicant still wants a plot (and at the currently nominated site). If not they may be removed from the waiting list. If they wish to remain on the waiting list then the appropriate action will depend both on the circumstances of the tenant and the nature and size of the plot.

If (in the opinion of the secretary) the prospective tenant has a valid reason for declining the plot and these reasons might be overcome in a reasonable period of time, (an example might be a person who is recovering from surgery but who should be fit in say 6 months’ time) then the applicant can stay in their current position on the waiting list. If this is not the case then the applicant should be informed that they will be re-entered on the waiting list at the date they refused the offered plot.

On sites with a reasonably sized waiting list this should ensure that they do not become eligible for a further offer for a suitable period of time, and the process of getting through the waiting list can proceed.

The issue of fires and bonfires was raised. It is clearly stated in the standard tenants’ agreements that a tenant may have a fire on his / her plot for the purpose of disposing of weeds etc. It is also clearly stated that tenants must not cause a nuisance either to other plot-holders or to neighbouring properties. In the Council’s opinion, the nuisance clause over-rides the “freedom to have a fire” clause. Causing a nuisance is a serious Breach of Tenancy. So it is in the interests of tenants to ensure that where arrangements are in place under which fires may be used without causing a nuisance, they abide by those arrangements. 

There remains the possibility that a blanket ban on any fires on plots may be imposed if complaints about plot fires continue to be received by the Council.

On the question of Bonfires – Allotment Sites are not considered suitable places for public events after dark, therefore societies should ensure that any Bonfires are strictly for plot-holders and their families, and that plot-holders take direct responsibility for anyone they bring onto the site. Charging for attendance at Bonfires would not be allowed by the Council and fireworks are actively discouraged. All materials burnt on the fire must have been generated on the site, no additional materials may be brought on to add to the fire.

Insurance companies are increasingly treating Bonfires as “Events” and societies may be forced to take out additional “events” insurance (in addition to their standard public liability insurance) if they wish to have even a members-only bonfire. Even where Bonfires are covered by current insurance policies the insurers may impose very onerous conditions if the insurance cover is to the complied with. Societies should check with their insurers. (See also previous abas postings on bonfires)

If a blanket ban is imposed on fires then this would apply to bonfires as well.

Boundary fences / gates are a common area of concern across a number of sites. This links to issues about allotment crime and vandalism which had been raised in Irene Pennington’s opening piece. Irene had also raised questions about site access road maintenance. Mr Russell hopes that staff will be able to get round as many sites as possible over the winter period to assess the situation. However, Council funds can only cover Health and Safety

We would like to remind members of the notes from the abas / council progress meeting which were posted on this site on 24/10/2016. This sets out the situation between now and March/April 2017 as it applies to inspections and mal-cultivations. It also advises an inspection in March 2017. Note that whilst the Council is not anticipating receiving Monthly Reports during the winter period, other issues may be reported by email.

Winter Break

Abas is now going on Winter Break, but if you have any issues please email Dave Jackson on boltonallotments2014@yahoo.co.uk

Next Meeting

The next scheduled abas meeting is Monday 13th March 2017

See you all then!!!

ABAS in the BN

This report of our AGM appeared in the Bolton News today (Thursday 17./11/2016)

Minutes of the last NWCAA Forum

County Body and Regional Panel 3 for the National Allotment Society

Salford Federation

Patricroft Methodist Church, Eccles M30 7HJ

23^rd October 2016

12.30pm

MINUTES

Attendance: Chairman Alan Hull, Secretary Andrea Hallissey, Regional Rep John Irwin, Councillor Mr Lee along with 32 assorted NW Federation and Association representatives

Chairman’s Welcome:  Alan welcomed members and thanked Salford Federation for hosting the Forum meeting. He introduced the panel and apologised for the absence of the Vice Chair Andy Percival due to ill health and the Treasurer Derek Copper who is recovering from major surgery. He then informed the meeting that he would be once again out of action for a while as he will be undergoing a heart bypass operation in the near future. The meeting wished them all a speedy recovery.

Apologise: Noelle Ryder, Colin Pilcher, Francis Beswick, Cath Holmes, Maggie Mackay, Andy Percival, Derek Cooper, Steve Dennison, Jeff Hewitt and Bill Taylor.

Minutes of last meeting: Apologise for not issuing the minutes earlier. Alan proceeded to read the minutes to the meeting. Proposed and seconded by Barry William/Don Booth.

Secretary Report: Andrea apologised for not attending the last meeting and reported things had been quiet over the last few months with Alan out of action.

Item’s covered included: The issue of nomination forms for the NWCAA AGM will go out with the Dec Newsletter. Any articles and announcements for inclusion in the NWCAA Newsletter to be received by the 24^th of the month prior to the event. Contact details on the change of Association committee members should be directed to NAS as well as the NWCAA. Encouragement for associations and Federations to contribute articles to the NAS Allotment magazine.

Treasures Report: Attached. Dave Morris NAS Treasurer explained how the Regional grant from NAS operates. As our finances are now sound the subject of small grants being made available to members was discussed and welcomed by members.

Regional Rep’s Report: John covered a wide range of topics.

Items covered included: The encouragement for committee’s members to have deputies in place. The NAS new rules will be available before the end of the year. NAS will be reviewing continuity between Regional and Federation constitutions. NAS will be highlighting the issue of bullying and he advised members to have systems in place to deal with such situations. Farm terrace court battle discussed. BT working with NAS regarding old BT sites being allocated for allotments.

Mentor Report: Alan reported on Knowsley Council problems regarding the administration of their sites. He appealed to members to supply any contact details they might have for the department responsible for allotments in their area. He informed members that this is a growing problem as these details are being lost to NAS with the changeover of management systems within councils. Problems with Shield Insurance charges. Both John and Alan recommended the publications “Voluntary but Not Amateur” Ruth Heys and Jacki Reason and “The Law of Allotments. 5^th Edition” to members. He also expressed his concern at the lack of attendance to county meetings by a number of NAS affiliated Federations, many of which he personally had spent a lot of time helping to set up. These concerns have come to light over the last twelve months with a growing number of enquiries from member associations in these areas. Reports of limited or very little contact, co-operation, encouragement to participate or information being circulated by their local Federation.

Best Site Competition: Encouragement by the panel for members to enter the 2017 competition. A preliminary poster will go out with the November newsletter before the issue of the official poster at NWCAA AGM in April.

Salford Federation Presentation: The chairman of the Federation Don Booth proceeded to inform the meeting of the positive relationship the Federation has forged with Salford Council. He appealed to the members to get involved in the Federations “Dig for the Future” campaign. A suggestion was put forward that those Federations affected by the Manchester Spacial Framework should work together. He thanked the NWCAA for all the support for the Federation over the last few years and as a thank you the Federation presented Alan hull with a small token of their appreciation.

Councillor Lee also gave a short presentation on his support for green space and allotments.

Area Reports: Reports were presented by Trafford, Oldham, Bolton, Rosendale, Wirral and Eden Gardens. If you wish a report to be filed please return the NWCAA secretary.

A.O.B: Andrea remarked that she personally would like to thank Maggie Mackay for her courage in standing at the previous meeting to air the issue of bullying.

Alan regretted the lack of attendance from area Federations. The NWCAA has had no response or reports from a number of Federations over the last 12 months. Reasons to be investigated

The panel encouraged members to help in the NAS membership drive. Oldham and Trafford area to work with secretary.

The issue of NAS issuing receipts to Associations/Federations for sub payments

A proposal was put to the meeting regarding possible problems with the allocation of plots in the West Cheshire area. John Irwin will investigate. No West Cheshire federation members attended. Proposed and second by Bill Smethurst/Dave Morris

Plea to members to vote for Andy Percival in the NAS forth coming election for the post of President.

NEXT Meeting: January meeting to be held on the Wirral. Date, time and place to be notified.

The panel and members would like to thank the hosts, Salford Federation for the excellent venue and lunch

FROM Allotment and Leisure Gardener

This short article appeared in Allotment and Leisure Gardener - many secretaries and committee members may sympathise with the views given

AGENDA FOR 2016 AGM

AGENDA - ABAS AGM 14/11/2016

The Annual General Meeting of the Association of Bolton Allotments Societies will take place at Astley Bridge Cricket Club on Monday 14th November 2016.

The meeting will start at 8.00 p.m. prompt.

The meeting will be in two halves, with a short break in between.

PART ONE

1.       Introduction and Welcome by the Chair

2.       A Site Secretary’s Review of the Year – Irene Pennington – Tonge Moor Road Allotments

3.       Review of the Current Situation – Malcolm Russell – Head of Service (Neighbourhood Services) – Environmental Services, Bolton MBC

PART TWO

1.       Minutes of AGM 2015 and Matters Arising

2.       Secretary’s Review of ABAS

3.       Treasurer’s Report / Accounts of the Association

4.       Election of Officers and Committee (Nominations may be made at the meeting)

5.       Review of Current Membership

6.       Competitions

7.       Bolton Allotments Competitions

8.       Bolton Onion, Leek and Vegetable Show

9.       Talks and Lectures

10.   Progress Meetings with Council

11.   Feedback from NWCAA meeting (23/10/2016)

12.   The Greater Manchester Spatial Framework and other potential threats to allotment sites

13.   The Winter Break

14.   Any Other Business

It is important that as many societies as possible send representatives to this meeting.

PROGRESS MEETING 14.10.2016

PROGRESS MEETING 14/10/2016

Present: Malcolm Russell (Bolton BMBC)

                Jeff Gibson (Chair, abas), Dave Jackson (secretary, abas), Terry Farrell (treasurer, abas)

General Update on tenancies, vacancies and waiting lists

MR presented the meeting with a matrix detailing for each site in Bolton (amongst other data)

• Whether an OMA is in place
• Current number of Plots
• Current waiting list
• Current number of useable vacant plots

The number of applicants on waiting lists is 440. However this includes persons who are ‘on probation’ as they are not removed from the waiting list until they have been offered and returned a Tenancy Agreement. It does not include those ‘buddies’ who have signified that they are only interested in taking over the plot on which they are currently helping.

MR expected an increase in vacant plots as 7 plots have been repossessed in the last 10 days under Breach of Tenancy stage 3 notices.

Issues surrounding the submission of signed tenancy registration forms (following successful completion of a probationary period) and the return of Tenancy Agreement Forms (once sent by the Council) remain a concern of both Council and abas secretaries. MR is reluctant to add to secretaries’ workloads under OMAs but as a meeting we felt that the situation would be improved IF tenancy registration forms were returned in the first place to Society Secretaries who could make a copy before submitting them to the authority. Such a practice would ensure that Society Secretaries would have a point of contact for all new tenants.

It is felt that the introduction of ‘probationary’ periods has reduced considerably the number of tenants who give up in the first year which leads to the mal-cultivation process being invoked so the plot may be re-let. Most OMA sites have adopted this practice and of those which didn’t most have now indicated that they will now do so.

MR stated that the numbers of new tenancies let in 2013-2014 was 86, in 2014-2015 79 and in 2015-2016 72.

Tenancy Terminations

There have been issues relating to tenants advising either the Council or the Site Secretary that they wished to terminate their tenancy. This has applied in both directions, secretaries report tenants leaving and the Council not telling them the plot was vacant and secretaries failing to tell the Council (on the monthly report) that a tenant had indicated that they wished to relinquish their tenancy. There has also been a case where a tenant had verbally indicated that s/he wished to leave but then withdrew that resignation after the secretary had advised the Council.

Therefore advice is that whenever possible Secretaries should obtain some document preferably a signed Tenancy Amendment form or perhaps a letter or email from the outgoing tenant stating that the tenant is relinquishing their plot. Failing that they should advise the outgoing tenant that it is the tenant’s responsibility to inform the council. Until such time as the secretary has a document (either as above or notification from the Council that the plot is available for re-letting) the secretary should not take steps to re-let the plot.

Transfer of sheds / greenhouses etc. to new tenants on termination.

The Notice of Re-possession (which replaces the old term Notice to Quit) gives a date by which the outgoing tenant must remove from the plot anything which he / she wishes to retain ownership of.

Any agreements between an outgoing tenant and an incoming tenant as to financial compensation for structures left on the plot are between the incoming and outgoing tenants alone.

Societies are not allowed to act as brokers or to take possession of any items on a vacated plot (unless the outgoing tenant specifically donates these to the society and they are removed prior to the termination date of the tenancy.) Similarly societies may not demolish any structures on a vacated plot unless the outgoing tenant specifically requests this and they are demolished prior to the termination date of the tenancy.

On the date the outgoing tenancy ends all items on the plot become the property of the Council for the use of the next tenant.

Prioritising Plot Transfers over new tenants

Where a society is aware that a plot is becoming vacant, and where the society believes that that plot would be a suitable one to which an existing tenant may be transferred (either because they want a larger / smaller plot, or a greenhouse etc.) then the Society should inform the Council (via the monthly report) that they will be advertising the plot for transfer internally on the site. It is for the Committee to determine whether or not applicants are suitable for transfer. Suitable applicants should be ranked in order of their length of stay on their current plot. (An alternative proposal is to ask those tenants who are looking to transfer to a larger plot to re-register on the Waiting List (without surrendering their current plot) and to deal with transfer requests in waiting list order. This is similar to the procedures set out for inter-site transfers in earlier abas minutes – see abas minutes 08/06/2015 Item 1.2 on www.abas2014.blogspot.co.uk

A guiding factor is that the end of a transfer chain must still result in a vacant plot becoming available to a person at the head of the site waiting list.

The Mal-cultivation Procedure

There are three stages to the Procedure carried out by the Council and OMA societies.

Stage One
This is an informal stage –
A plot that is not being adequately cultivated, or has some other breach of tenancy, is identified.

1. The Site Committee take (dated) photographs of the plot.
2. The Site Secretary then contacts the plot-holder and determines whether (in the Society’s opinion) there are extenuating circumstances.
3. If there are the Society may opt to take no further action
4. Otherwise the Site Secretary discusses with the plot-holder how the plot may be brought up to standard, and sets a date (at least 21 days ahead) at which the plot will be re-inspected. This period for improvement may be as long as the Society deems fit, and may (at the discretion of the Society) be extended.
5. The Site Secretary then flags the plot on the monthly report as being at Stage One (retaining the photograph, and making a record of the date the plot-holder was contacted and what has been agreed.)
6. If the site secretary cannot contact the plot-holder (despite reasonable efforts) then the matter goes straight to Stage Two
7. Once any agreed period for plot improvement has elapsed the plot is re-inspected.
8. If the plot is still (in the opinion of the Committee) unsatisfactory, than stage 2 may begin.

Stage Two – stage two is the start of the formal procedure at which the Council becomes involved

1. Following the re-inspection of the plot, a (dated) photograph is taken.
2. The plot is then flagged as being at Stage 2 on the monthly report (to which the photograph is appended) and the Council is requested to send a BoT2 letter to the plot-holder.
3. If, based on the evidence provided, the Council find the condition of the plot unsatisfactory then they will issue a BoT2 letter to the plot-holder. This letter defines a period (14 days) in which the plot-holder must demonstrate improvements. (Under new arrangements the officer responsible will e-mail the site secretary to confirm the BoT2 has been sent.)
4. The Site Secretary then schedules a further re-inspection for a few days after the lapse of the ‘improvement’ period.
5. If the plot is now (in the opinion of the Committee) satisfactory the matter is closed. Any further lapses would require the re-start of the process at the beginning of Stage 2.
6. If the plot remains unsatisfactory then Stage 3 may begin.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT RE-INSPECTIONS / PHOTOGRAPHS ARE AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO THE DATE OF THE MONTHLY REPORT. MONTHLY REPORTS CAN BE SUBMITTED AT ANY TIME OF THE MONTH PROVIDED AT LEAST 30 DAYS HAS PASSED SINCE THE LAST REPORT.

IF A SECRETARY IS IN DOUBT AS TO WHETHER A PLOT IS IN A SATISFACTORY CONDITION THEN ADVICE IS TO SUBMIT A STAGE 2 REQUEST AND LET THE COUNCIL OFFICERS MAKE THE JUDGEMENT

Stage 3

1. A (dated) photograph is taken.
2. The plot is flagged as Stage 3 on the monthly report (to which the stage 2 and stage 3 photos are attached), and the Council is requested to issue a BoT3 notice – a Notice of Re- Entry (what used to be called a Notice to Quit).
3. If based on the evidence provided, the Council agree that the condition of the plot remains unsatisfactory then they will issue a BoT3 letter to the plot-holder. This gives the plot-holder one month to remove any items he / she wishes to retain from the plot and then vacate it. (Under new arrangements the officer responsible will e-mail the site secretary to confirm the BoT3 has been sent.)
4. Once the required period has elapsed, the Council will take possession of the plot and will inform the Site Secretary that it may be re-let.

ABAS ADDITION

NB – the Council will not action any new requests for BoT letters after the submission of the September monthly report until April 2017. Any cases already at Stage 2 will continue.

In abas’ opinion secretaries would be advised (in say Feb/March 2017) to:

·         Tell all plot-holders on their site that there will be a site inspection on xx/April/ 2017 (this might be amended dependent on weather etc.)

·         Inform all plot-holders that if they are experiencing problems in bringing their plot up to an acceptable level of cultivation for that date they should contact the Committee to discuss the matter

·         If, at the stated inspection date, a plot is not at a suitable level of cultivation (particularly if the tenant has not been seen to be actively engaged with their plot by that date) then the Committee should list that plot at stage 2 and invoke the Mal-cultivation procedure.

·         From April to end September the normal mal-cultivation process should be followed.

 Abas’ Report to Members on Fires on Plots

It was agreed that there are essentially three ‘documents’ which define the regulations about fires on plots.

Para 13 of the current Tenancy Agreement states that a tenant may have a fire but that he / she must not ‘cause a nuisance’. Therefore it would seem logical that if a tenant has (or repeatedly has) a fire which causes a nuisance then this is a breach of tenancy and that tenant could be issued with a BOT2 or potentially Notice of Re-entry. The decision whether to apply this will lie with the Council

However it has been asserted that whether a Statutory nuisance is being caused or not can only be determined by a court under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This requires action from the Environmental Pollution Unit at Bolton MBC.

A letter issued on 19 March 2014 by Neighbourhood Services which states that the Environmental Protection Act 1990 applies to fires on allotment sites.

An advisory note issued by Environmental Services in March 2014 stating that section 79 of the Environmental Protection Act applies and setting out the potential penalties to individuals of causing a nuisance.

These documents are appended to this post

It was also reported that following complaints about fires at one particular allotment site, the Council is giving consideration to introducing a blanket ban on fires on allotment sites. (This would undoubtedly require an amendment to existing Tenancy Agreements, this could be done in conjunction with sending out the annual ‘bills’).  Abas would urge all members to follow local guidelines about avoiding causing nuisance so that such a draconian step will not be taken.

Multiple-Plots at the same address

The question had been raised about a situation where unrelated people shared an address (essentially about ‘houses in multiple occupation’). There has never been a case where applications from such persons has caused a problem. Provided they are genuinely separate households then each may apply for and be granted a plot.

Keeping Bees on Site

There had been a report that the Council was reviewing its policy about the keeping of bees on allotment sites. The Council is not currently reviewing arrangements and there is no ‘policy’ as such. The Council’s ruling is that anyone wishing to keep bees must have attended a recognised bee-keeping course and be able to produce the required insurance documents BEFORE placing a hive on site. On the positioning of hives the Council would recommend that the guidelines set out in the relevant NSALG leaflet be followed, but each individual application would be examined on its merits.

Issues with Japanese Knotweed

A programme to control JKW has begun at Settle Street.

At Dealey Rd. (and at Settle Street) the Council is contacting the adjoining landowners to advise them of their responsibilities in the eradication of JKW.

On other sites it is recommended that Societies conduct a twice yearly programme of cutting and burning and the application of a glyphosate  weedkiller for a period of two years. This should make a major impact.

Society Bonfires

There are issues about the definition of a bonfire – this covers a range of events from simple burning of scrap wood, dried weeds etc. by one or two plot-holders acting together to an event to which the public are invited (and possibly charged) and at which fireworks are set off.

Council opinion is that there should be NO public events on allotment sites after dark. It is felt that sites are unsafe places.

Therefore any (Nov 5^th-style) bonfires must be restricted to plot-holders and their guests, and plot-holders must be made aware that they are personally responsible for the behaviour and safety of their guests.

In order to have a bonfire a society should

·         Inform the Council as to date and time

·         Provide either a risk assessment or an event management plan

·         Provide evidence of adequate and specific insurance.

·         (On this point one local site consulted its insurers (Bluefin) to find that a clause had been inserted in their public liability insurance policy namely that they must inform both police and fire brigade at least 14 days before the event and follow any recommendations that they made – there were also specifics about a safe space around the fire and an absolute ban on fireworks. We would therefore advise all societies to check with their insurers.)

The Council has also stipulated that NO additional material may be brought onto the site for the purposes of the bonfire.

A number of individual society matters were discussed and these will be fed back to the relevant secretaries asap.