Draft:Newland Allotments

Newland Allotments is a historic community garden established in the 1800s and located in the suburb Newland in Hull, East Yorkshire. It stands as the largest and oldest allotment site in the city and East Yorkshire, serving as a vibrant hub for vegetable gardening enthusiasts and fostering a sense of community among its diverse tenants. The allotment site is classified as statutory, providing them protection under the Allotments Act 1925. As statutory allotments, they cannot be sold or repurposed without the consent of the Secretary of State, ensuring their continued use for community gardening and local food production. This designation underscores the importance of preserving green spaces for public use and maintaining urban agriculture within the city.

History
Founded in the 19th century, Newland Allotments has a rich history deeply rooted in the cultural and agricultural heritage of Hull. Over the years, it has evolved from a traditional allotment space into a dynamic community garden, embracing sustainable practices and providing a welcoming environment for residents from all walks of life. As Newland Allotments land is owned by the local authority and classed as a statutory site it is protected by the Allotments Acts.

In February 1909, first on on site association was created known as “Newland Corporation Allotments Society”.

By 1910 the association was remained to "Newland Horticultural Society", later that year 3rd September 1910, the society held its first annual flower and vegetable show, which was opened at Cottingham road to the public by Mr W. Stephenson the president of the society. The judging was done by Mr H. B. Witty the park superintendent. Two stands of flowers and ferns were exhibited Mr Cottam, of Cottingham, and Mr W. Smith of Holy Trinity Cottage, Hull. The displays was out of competition. Mr Smith's displayed was noted as praiseworthy as an amateur. The categories for the flower show was; Dahlias, Marigold, Scabious, Stocks, Asters, Carnations, Gladiolus, Pansies, Violas, Roses, Sweet Peas, Distinct Cut Variety (outside grown), Bouquet (outside grown). The categories for the vegetable show was; Tray of vegetables (six varieties), Cucumbers, Celerv, Cauliflower, Peas, Beans, Onions, Potatoes (six), Tomatoes, Turnips, Parsnips, Cabbage, Marrow, Lettuce, Reddish. The Best Cultivated Garden.

In 1916, it was suggested that new rules for cultivation should be implemented during the war that two-thirds of the plot should be cultivated to only grow vegetables to increase the food supply of the local people. Requests were made by city engineers for fencing costing £120 and water supply costing £40 to the site as part of safeguarding the future of the allotment site.

In January 1917, due to the demand in food and the effects of World War One. The Cultivation of Lands Order Act of 1917 was passed by Parliament on 19th January 1917. This order urged local authorities to step up the cultivation of necessary food. The Cultivation of Land Order gave the councillors power to take possession of unoccupied land without notice and were not required to pay any rent respect of that land. The land was allowed to be let to cultivation of small allotments or to individual cultivators, it had been found experience that ten rods equivalent to one-eighth of an acre was a convenient size. Newland Allotments was recorded to have 146 plots matching the requirements and was already fully tenanted. The keeping of pigs, rabbits, and poultry was not prohibited under certain conditions and tenants were permitted under the Act to erect pigsties if they desired. The council was authorised to provide seeds, manure, and tools to assist on food production. The council was given the powers to buy bulk seed potatoes but could not retail them to individuals due to the rationing they was supplied directly to the sites allotment association. By February of that year, reports of the country implemented voluntary food rationing. The following December shortages was announced and expected to affect the food supply, allotment holders was encouraged to grow certain vegetables earlier in the season with food rationing becoming compulsory.

In 1943, after the Hull Blitz there was an Allotment Protection Association formed with the aim of safeguarding the site as a whole. The meeting took place at Sidmouth Primary School and was attended by over 150 tenants.

In 1987, city council leisure services committee blocked a bid to turn two acres of the Newland allotments create a playing field for Sidmouth Street Primary School, the move would have meant losing 40 allotments.

In 2010, it was identified that Newland Allotments was a significant site in the Hull Biodiversity Action Plan, highlighting their importance to local biodiversity. Recognised for it's ecological value, and was included among 11 key sites in the plan.

In 2012, the official opening of the sites toilet block took place 3 July in partnership with Sidmouth Primary School and Newland Allotments. This event marked the completion of an important infrastructure project aimed at improving the facilities at Newland Allotments. The new toilet block was intended to serve both the allotment users and the students of Sidmouth Primary School, enhancing the overall utility and accessibility of the allotment site. This initiative was part of the broader efforts by the Wyke Area Committee to support community spaces and promote local engagement in gardening and outdoor activities.

In 2013, the Wyke Area Committee allocated £15,000 for the repair and refurbishment of the tracks and roads within the Newland Allotments site, patching approximately 220 square meters and overlaying 585 square meters to enhance the infrastructure, making the allotments more accessible and safer for users.

In 2014, there was a notable rise in allotment waiting lists, reflecting a national trend. At that time, there were 557 people on the waiting list for allotments in the Wyke Area of Hull, which includes Newland Allotments. A briefing note presented by the Parks and Open Spaces Development Manager discussed several issues relevant to Newland Allotments and other sites in the area. Key points included the increase in the waiting list, the annual charges for plots, and the necessity of safeguarding current allotment spaces while considering new areas for cultivation.

Between 2018 and 2020, the site experienced a string of break-ins. In 2018, multiple incidents occurred, including the theft of over 20 chickens and ducks from the allotment site. Despite the thief attempting to dispose of a wildlife camera in the duck pond, it continued to function and captured still images of the perpetrator. In addition to this incident, vegetables were stolen from at least 20 other greenhouses and several sheds were broken into, with various items stolen.

The break-ins continued into 2020 and affected over 30 plot holders. The thefts included paraffin heaters, cooking stoves, and gardening tools. Wildlife cameras once again captured footage of the individual committing the thefts, which was reported to Humberside Police. CCTV showed the thief, wearing a light hoodie and a backpack similar to the previous occurrence in 2018. The chair of the allotment emphasised the community’s willingness to help those in need, even suggesting that the perpetrator could seek assistance rather than resorting to theft.

Through the Covid-19 Pandemic, the site remained open throughout, and saw a rise in the sites waiting list.

In 2024, the site is set to host BBC Gardeners' Question Time a long-running BBC Radio 4 programme in which amateur gardeners can put questions to a panel of experts. The event is set to be held at Middleton Hall within University of Hull.

Site Features
The site is part managed with Hull City Council and Newland Allotments Tenants Association. The site is two of 21 council run sites located in the Hull. The allotment site encompasses over 270 plots spanning over 22 acres, each contributing to the lush green landscape of Newland. The size of plots on the Newland Allotments are the equivalent of 250sq metres (size of a doubles tennis court). The land is also used for growing ornamental plants or for keeping useful creatures such as egg-laying poultry or even honey-making bees. The allotment site in popular in this urban setting of Hull where big gardens are a luxury. These plots provide individuals, families and charities with opportunities to engage in gardening activities, fostering a connection to nature and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The site has a community hut, orchard, wild life pond known as the lagoon, garden and on site toilet facilities, all of which are managed by the onsite volunteering team Newland Allotments Tenants Association (N.A.T.A).

Bakersville Allotment
The project was founded on the site in 2000. It began with one plot on the site and now occupies several adjacent plots to support its development. It was created by the local NHS teams and was designed to accept those directly who are currently receiving a service from the Humber NHS Foundation Trust. It supports people who suffer with mental health conditions currently receiving help through occupational therapy and allows education through horticulture and biodiversity to be used as part of the therapy.

Let's Talk - City Healthcare Partnership
The project is backed by City Healthcare Partnership. It designed to help people with anxiety and depression using its services allows the project to provide support to people who suffer with their mental and emotional health. The developments on the allotment site allows the teams from the project to provide therapeutic support and intervention. It helps develops and supports issues such as anxiety, low mood and low self-esteem. Learners who visiting the site as part of the project are able to do gardening development, such as growing fruit and vegetables, they can assist in building allotment structures, take in the fresh air, and notice the peace and quiet elements while attending the social element.

P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery
The project is free community service that provides support in Hull and the surrounding areas for those who have been affected by acquired brain injury (ABI). The projects aim is to provide support, through the use of guidance and education to individuals and families who are directly affected. While visitors on site they will use the allotment to take part which aim to reduce social isolation by taking part in group activities, creating new friendships.

Down to Earth
Down to Earth is a community-driven project dedicated to fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement. Through a series of hands-on workshops, participants are introduced to various topics spanning conservation and sustainable living. These workshops aim to empower individuals of all ages and abilities with practical knowledge and skills, covering areas such as small-space food cultivation, natural pest control, habitat creation, and nature photography.

Good To Go
The project is a pioneering initiative building upon the success of This-Ability. Tailored for young individuals aged 18 to 29 with learning disabilities, physical impairments, and long-term health conditions, particularly in Hull and the East Riding region, the program aims to cultivate social and life skills while combatting isolation and loneliness. Through a 12-week curriculum encompassing activities like allotment work, cooking, fitness, and community volunteering, participants develop essential soft skills, engage in health and wellbeing initiatives, and explore career avenues. Funded by Reaching Communities through the National Lottery Community Fund, Good to Go is poised to empower its beneficiaries, fostering resilience, confidence, and community integration.

Nathaniels Allotment
Nathaniels Allotment is an online presence cultivated by the green-thumbed duo, Nathan & Daniel. Established in 2017 and originating from a patch of brambles, evolving into a thriving haven for homegrown produce and shared experiences online. Through their developments they continue to document them on social media. Notably, in December 2021, the allotment garnered recognition by being featured in the esteemed Kitchen Garden Magazine, further solidifying its significance within the gardening and online community.