Hailsham Town Council Celebrates National Allotment Week

Hailsham Town Council is proud to join communities across the country in celebrating National Allotment Week, an annual event that shines a spotlight on the many benefits of allotment gardening for individuals, families and the environment.

Allotments offer far more than just a place to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers. They promote healthy eating, regular outdoor exercise and sustainable living practices, while also providing opportunities to connect with nature and build friendships with fellow gardeners. Allotment holders often speak of the mental health benefits, from reduced stress to a sense of accomplishment and well-being.

At present, Hailsham Town Council manages 97 allotment plots across three sites:

• Station Road – 13 plots
• Battle Road – 57 plots
• Harold Avenue – 27 plots

Standard plot sizes are either 3 rods or 5 rods in size (one rod is just over 5 metres). Annual rental costs are £23.10 for a 3-rod plot and £39.60 for a 5-rod plot.

The Town Council regularly maintains all allotment sites to ensure they remain safe and welcoming for tenants. Recent works include replacement fencing and new gates at the Battle Road site, and Harold Avenue allotments are set to receive new gates soon.

Due to the popularity of allotment gardening in Hailsham and indeed many towns across the country, there is currently a waiting list for new tenants – which operates strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Those joining the list should be aware there may be some time before a plot becomes available but will be contacted as soon as one is ready.

Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “National Allotment Week is a perfect opportunity to recognise how allotments enrich our community – they’re not just about growing food, they’re about growing connections, improving health and caring for our environment.”

“We’re proud of the allotment sites we maintain in Hailsham and the dedication of our plot holders, who show how small patches of land can make a big difference to people’s lives!”

For more information on Hailsham Town Council’s allotments, or to join the waiting list, please contact the Town Council Offices on 01323 841702 or email enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.