But this just makes it more of a shame that a council surrounded by countryside
stil has its allotment waiting lists closed. They've been closed for over a
year I think.
What's going on?
Dan.
NATIONAL AWARD FOR BRIGHTON ALLOTMENT
If you thought all allotments consisted of rows of carrots and potatoes then
think again!
A compost loo, treehouse classroom, firepit and a wattle and daub Wendy house
are just three of the features that have helped a Brighton allotment project
scoop a national award.
The Moulsecoomb Forest Garden and Wildlife Project (MFG) has just been voted
the best community allotment project in the UK. The award was given by the
Kitchen Garden Magazine in conjunction with the National Allotment Gardens
Trust.
Moulsecoomb Forest Garden and Wildlife Project is a community food project
based on 8 allotment plots in Brighton. The project offers horticultural,
educational and social opportunities and is a perfect example of community
involvement and teamwork.
Along with plots growing organic fruit and vegetables there are wildlife areas
with a pond full of newts and frogs and a treehouse/outdoor classroom being
built by youth offenders and pupils from the Alternative Centre for Education.
Theres also a polytunnel, compost loo, firepit and a childrens space including
a wattle and daub Wendy house.
Theres also a forest garden, which recreates the different layers of a forest
from tall fruit trees to fruit bushes and herbs.
Kitchen Gardener editor Steve Ott said: This is a wonderful project, working
with some of the areas most disadvantaged and troubled youngsters to give them
the chance to get their hands into the soil, grow and taste their own fresh
vegetables, and just to have a positive environment in which to interact.
Warren Carter of MFG added: For many pupils and youth offenders school has
failed them. We just try and find the skills they are good at and give them
confidence and self belief. We offer an alternative curriculum, teaching not
just gardening but building and carpentry skills, woodland management and
cooking skills. The allotments are also a great place for a wide range of
people who would never usually mix to socialise around a fire and cup of tea,
becoming part of the social glue that binds communities together.
Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, chairman of the councils environment committee
said: Its wonderful to see the councils allotments being used in such an
exciting and innovative way. This is community working at its best with
everyone, from the very youngest to the more senior members, working together
to create something really special.
I congratulate all those involved in winning this prestigious and well deserved
award.