Wembury Allotment Association

Rules and Regulations for Allotment Users in Wembury, Devon

Allotments provide a wonderful opportunity for individuals and communities to cultivate their own land, grow fresh produce, and connect with nature. In Wembury, the local allotment association has established a set of rules and regulations to ensure fair and efficient management of the allotment plots.

The majority of these rules are contained within the Tenancy Agreement an example of which follows.

Note that fees and arrangements are subject to regular review and can change

The plot tenancy agreement for a half or full plots in the 2025 season can be found by following this link.

The most recent information about polytunnel fees is also contained in the above document.

The tenancy agreement is  quite a lot to take in , particularly for new allotment plot holders but the many rules contained within the tenancy agreement are designed to help maintain a harmonious environment for all users and promote the sustainable use of resources.

Let's explore and explain the key rules and regulations that allotment users in Wembury, Devon, should be aware of.

Membership and Plot Allocation: To become an allotment user in Wembury, individuals must first apply for membership with the Wembury Allotment Association. Membership availability is subject to the availability of vacant plots. Once approved, users will be allocated a plot based on availability and their preferences, if possible. The association strives to accommodate all interested individuals, but due to limited space, there may be a waiting list.

Plot Cultivation: Allotment users are expected to cultivate their assigned plots actively. It is expected that at least 75% of the area of the plot must be used for growing vegetables, fruits, herbs, or flowers for personal use. Neglected plots can affect the overall appearance and productivity of the allotment site. Therefore, users are encouraged to maintain their plots regularly and prevent them from becoming overgrown with weeds. Once awarded a plot the holder is expected to make a start with work on it as soon as possible. 

Environmental Practices: In Wembury, environmental sustainability is a key focus, especially so with our links to the National Trust.. It is hoped that Allotment users will follow eco-friendly practices and promote biodiversity. The use of chemical pesticides and herbicides is allowed under the terms of our landlord, the National Trust but is strongly discouraged. Instead, users are encouraged to adopt organic and natural methods of pest control. Composting is encouraged for waste management, and water conservation practices should be observed, such as collecting rainwater in water butts on your plot. A minimum of 2 butts are recommended, the more water you can store on site the easier it is for you as a tenant!

Maintenance and Upkeep: Allotment users are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of their plots. This includes weeding, watering, and the removal of any debris or rubbish. Tools and equipment should be used with care, and any accidental damage caused to Association property must be promptly reported to the allotment association via the Plot Steward.

Structures and Boundaries: The construction of sheds, greenhouses, or other structures on plots is not permitted. If a plot holder wishes to install a shed please seek the advice of the current Plot Steward, who will determine whether there is space and go through any other considerations. Any structures erected should be well-maintained and meet the National Trust size and colour standard. Boundaries between plots must be respected, and any issues or disputes should be reported to the association for mediation.

Bonfires: These are permitted between October and March, normally. If you have a specific need outside of this time period please consult with the Plot Steward.

Attendance and Communication: Regular attendance to the allotment site is expected from users. This helps foster a sense of community and ensures that plots are actively cultivated. In cases of prolonged absence, users are encouraged to notify the allotment association. The association may conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with the rules and regulations and can issue warning notices via email.

Fees and Dues: Allotment users are required to pay an annual rent to the Wembury Allotment Association. This fee contributes to the maintenance and improvement of the allotment site as well as to administrative costs.  There is a non refundable joining fee charged when first becoming a member of the Association.

Termination of Membership: Failure to comply with the rules and regulations may result in the termination of an allotment user's membership. Persistent neglect, unauthorized use of dangerous chemicals, or disruptive behaviour can lead to the withdrawal of plot allocation. Warning letters /emails will be sent out following the regular plot inspections undertaken by committee members. These letters will explain what needs to be done on the plot to bring it up to the expected standard and will give the plot holder a given time in which to improve it. If improvements are not made then the Association can terminate the tenancy.  In such cases, the association may reassign the plot to another individual on the waiting list.

Trees: Any trees planted must not be allowed, as they grow, to interfere with neighbouring plots and should be kept no more than 8 feet in height, equivalent to M9 dwarfing rootstock. This is a condition from our original lease with the National Trust.

Update: Following an issue with plots being taken on by new tenants who then appeared not to take much further interest, on the 28th March 2023 the committee agreed a change to the tenancy agreement in that that new plot-holders would be allowed two months to start work on their plot and if no improvement was observed after this time period then they would be given one month’s notice to either improve or vacate. It was agreed that the same will apply to existing plot-holders who have abandoned or severely neglected their plots. The notice to improve is a standard letter, a copy of which may be found here. Nobody on the committee wishes to see a plot holder lose their allotment and in many cases communication is key. 

Volunteers: The association is run by unpaid volunteers working for the good of all tenants, please respect them when rules are having to be enforced !