Allotment survey
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The allotment survey was initiated in March 2003 as part of the consultation prior to drafting an allotment strategy. The aim was to consult as widely as possible so that the strategy can reflect the opinions and aspirations of current allotment users. In total 240 responses were received, which is roughly a 50% response rate. Some data were missing or incomplete but generally the questionnaire generated some useful information.
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Status: |
Closed
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| Opening Date: |
March 2003
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| Closing Date: |
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| Area of Coverage: |
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| Method: |
Questionnaire
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| Sample Size: |
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| Community Strategy Theme: |
Community, Environmental
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| Number of Respondants: |
Total responses received: 240
The survey captured a range of different allotment tenants, however some groups did have much higher response rates. For example 93% of all individuals from Column Allotments Association returned a questionnaire. In contrast the survey may well under represent the views of those in Harlescott Association where only 9% responded.
In part this reflects the strength of the associations at each respective site. This does however slightly tarnish the data, as it is not truly representative of the views of all allotment users.
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| Summary of Results: |
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| Link to Full Results: |
The full results can be viewed by clicking on this link and then clicking on the icon 'Allotment Survey Responses' at the bottom of the page.
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| Findings: |
The main findings of the allotment survey were:
- That the majority of allotment users were older members of society
- That most allotment users were retired (although a significant proportion were working full-time)
- That most allotments are using 'environmentally friendly' techniques (in particular composting and crop rotation)
- That there were some environmental problems at the allotments (in particular use of slug pellets and cross contamination of organic plots)
- That most users (78%) would at least consider growing organically
- There was evidence that using allotments benefits health
- There was evidence that using allotments benefits the environment
- There was evidence that using allotments benefits community cohesion
- There was evidence that using allotments benefits users socially
- The allotments are mostly used for the production of traditional varieties of vegetable (particularly peas, spinach and potatoes)
- That the main problems for current allotment users in order are: -
1) Site security and fencing
2) Lack of provision of toilets
3) Waste disposal
- That current allotment users have many useful ideas and a valuable contribution to make to the future direction of policy on allotments
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| Outcomes: |
The main outcome as a result of the consultation is that we have tried to improve security at the sites, trying to replace fencing where possible and working with the police to design out crime.
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| Decisions: |
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| Contact: |
James Thompson
Sustainable Development Officer
(01743) 281039
james.thompson@shrewsbury.gov.uk
For further general information about Allotments please click here
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