The Issue at a Glance
Ashfield Community Action has been actively investigating the history, ownership status, and proposed developments relating to the allotment site off Diamond Avenue, Kirkby-in-Ashfield.
Our core focus is protecting community amenity land and ensuring that local governing bodies adhere strictly to legal requirements before any statutory allotment land can be repurposed, built upon, or disposed of.
Statutory Compliance (Section 8)
Under Section 8 of the Allotments Act 1925, local authorities are legally prohibited from disposing of statutory allotment land without express consent from the Secretary of State. Consent can only be lawfully granted if specific criteria are verified, including establishing that:
- The allotment land is not required, or that adequate alternative provision has been made for current plot holders.
- The council has actively promoted the site rather than allowing it to fall into disuse through neglect.
- A fair, comprehensive, and transparent consultation process has taken place with all local residents and plot-holders.
Our Campaign Objectives
- Transparency: Ensure all council documentation, land transfer contracts, and internal correspondence are fully accessible under FOI and EIR requests.
- Accountability: Formally challenge any administrative irregularities or failure to consult residents properly.
- Community Representation: Unify local voices so that Kirkby residents have a direct seat at the table.
Latest Campaign Updates
Documentary Review & Public Representations
Committee members are collating historical registry documents, tithe records, and past council minutes to substantiate the statutory status of the land.
How You Can Help
Community strength comes from numbers. If you are a resident of Diamond Avenue or the surrounding Kirkby area:
- Share personal memories or tenancy agreements from the site.
- Join our active discussion group on Facebook.
- Sign our representations and petitions.
Location Summary
Area: Diamond Avenue, Kirkby-in-Ashfield
District: Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Designation: Allotments / Open Community Space