Part Two of the Allotmenteer Beginner’s Guide
Statutory, Temporary, Association‑Run, Private — and what they mean for you
Once you’ve decided that an allotment might be right for you, the next step is understanding the different types of sites that exist. Not all allotments are equal. Some are secure for decades, some are temporary, some are run by councils, and others by volunteers. Knowing the difference helps you make a choice that fits your life, your expectations, and your long‑term plans.
This guide breaks down the main types of allotment sites in the UK and what each one means for a beginner.
🌱 Statutory Allotments
These are the most secure and protected type of allotment land.
A statutory allotment is land that a local council has formally designated for allotment use. Because of this legal status, statutory sites come with strong protections:
the land cannot easily be sold or developed
councils must follow strict procedures before closing a site
alternative land must usually be provided if a site is removed
plot holders enjoy long‑term stability
For beginners, statutory sites are often the safest choice if you want a plot you can keep for years without worrying about redevelopment.
How to spot one: Most councils list whether a site is statutory on their website, but if not, you can ask the allotment officer or site secretary.
🌿 Temporary Allotments
These are allotments on land that has not been formally designated for allotment use.
Temporary sites are often:
on land earmarked for future development
on short‑term leases
created to meet local demand
more vulnerable to closure or relocation
This doesn’t mean they’re bad — many temporary sites run beautifully for years — but they don’t offer the same long‑term certainty.
Good for: People who want to get started quickly and aren’t worried about long‑term permanence.
🧠Association‑Run Allotments
Some allotment sites are managed not by the council but by a volunteer committee or allotment association.
This usually means:
the association handles day‑to‑day running
rules may differ slightly from council sites
rent is paid to the association
there’s often a stronger sense of community
insurance is usually bundled with membership
waiting lists may be shorter or more flexible
Association‑run sites can be statutory or temporary — the management structure is separate from the land designation.
Good for: Beginners who value community, support, and a more personal approach.
🌾 Private Allotments
Less common, but they do exist.
Private allotments are:
owned by individuals, estates, charities, or trusts
rented directly to plot holders
governed by private agreements rather than council rules
variable in cost, facilities, and security
Some private sites are incredibly well‑run; others are more informal. Terms vary widely, so it’s worth reading the agreement carefully.
Good for: People who want flexibility or who live in areas with long council waiting lists.
🛠️ Hybrid or Unusual Setups
Occasionally you’ll find:
community gardens with shared beds
charity‑run sites aimed at wellbeing or education
church or school‑owned plots
co‑operative growing spaces
These aren’t traditional allotments, but they can be brilliant places to learn, especially if you’re nervous about taking on a full plot.
🌿 Which Type Is Best for a Beginner?
There’s no single right answer, but here’s a simple guide:
Want long‑term security? Choose statutory.
Want to get started quickly? Temporary or association‑run sites often move faster.
Want support, advice, and community? Association‑run sites shine here.
Live somewhere with long waiting lists? Private or hybrid sites may be your quickest route in.
The key is choosing a site that fits your life, not just your ideal scenario.
🌾 Next in the Series
Part Three — Where to Apply and When to Apply