There have been allotment gardens in Alton for many years and they make a valuable contribution to the community. As well as the plotholders, many other people benefit – produce is given to families and friends and, as green spaces within the built-up area, allotments benefit everyone. Gardening is a health-promoting activity and it yields fresh, tasty fruits and vegetables which are free from excessive pesticides and have not been transported hundreds or even thousands of miles (food miles). Each site has one volunteer site representative – sometimes two – helping the Council liaise with plotholders. Plot sizes vary, with an average size of approximately 5 rods i.e. 25.29 square.
Alton allotments are spread over five sites:
Borovere
Borovere allotment site is ideal for residents living close to The Butts ‘The Race Course Estate’ and off Borovere Lane. Borovere has 26 plots.
whitedown
Whitedown allotment site is ideal for residents living on the Whitedown Estate. Whitedown has 69 plots.
spitalfields
Spitalfields allotment site borders the Alton Cemetery and is also near to the College. Spitalfields has 74 plots and is located adjacent to the Wooteys allotment site.
wooteys
Wooteys allotment site is located adjacent to the Spitalfields allotment site. Wooteys has 41 plots, there is an area with raised beds for gardeners with special needs. The site is off Edward Road and near the College.
hawthorns
Hawthorns allotment site is ideal for residents living in the Greenfields area. Hawthorns has 44 plots plots.
Apply for an Allotment
The council provides allotments for the residents of Alton and Holybourne. The current rent for a plot is £30 per annum, with an additional one-off £30 administration fee for new tenants which includes the key charge.
To apply for an allotment you need to fill an application for an allotment and return it to us either by post, in person at the Town Hall or by email to our allotment officer who will also respond to any enquiries sent to . Once we receive your application, we will add you to our waiting list, and contact you once you reach the top and a plot is made available on one of the sites you have selected.
Before you apply for an allotment please be aware that inspections are carried out during the growing season generally from April to September and plotholders need to ensure they comply with Alton Town Council Plotholders Handbook. The Town Council works closely with Alton Allotment Association who can help with tips on how to tend your allotment garden and where to find the appropriate equipment and seeds. You may also find useful information on the National Allotment Society website, and notably growing advice.
Once a year as part of the Town Council’s Alton in Bloom competition Site Representatives nominate their top three plots on their site. These are then judged by two Councillors who are on the Allotments Sub Committee and the Town Mayor. Nonimees are invited to the Town Council’s Alton in Bloom Awards Evening which is held in mid September.