National Allotment Society Addresses Concerns Regarding Allotment Land
London, UK – The National Allotment Society (NAS) has responded to recent reports in the national media regarding the future of allotment land under the new government policy. While these reports may have caused alarm among plot holders, supporters, and the wider public, the NAS would like to offer reassurance and context.
In a statement released on Monday 4 August, 2025, the NAS confirmed that there have been no changes to the legal protections that apply to statutory allotments. These protections remain robust, and no statutory site can be sold or developed without going through a clearly defined legal process, in which the NAS plays an active and formal role.
The NAS is aware of the sites mentioned in recent reporting and assures that due process has been followed in each case. In some situations, replacement land has been secured, ensuring continued opportunities for growing in those communities.
Private Sites Remain Vulnerable
The recent media coverage has brought attention to a broader issue – many allotment sites in the UK do not enjoy statutory status. These privately owned sites are not protected by the same legal processes and may be more vulnerable to sale or redevelopment.
The NAS sees this as an opportunity for constructive discussion on how to extend protections to more sites.
Proud of Existing Framework
The NAS is proud of the legislation that protects statutory allotments, a framework that has been shaped over time with the input of the organization and its members. It is a testament to the importance of allotments in society and the value placed on community growing spaces.
This legislation serves as a model of how communities can work with local and national government to protect green spaces for the benefit of public health, food security, and sustainability.
Celebrating National Allotments Week
Despite concerns, the NAS highlights the important role allotments play in society as National Allotments Week approaches (11-17 August 2025). A recent national survey conducted by the NAS reveals overwhelming public support for allotment gardening and the many benefits it provides.
The survey found that 91% of respondents would recommend having an allotment. Participants reported improvements in mental and physical health, stronger community connections, and better access to fresh, affordable food.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted that allotments are not just green spaces, but essential community assets that support wellbeing, sustainability, and local resilience. In fact, 35.6% of respondents rated the impact on their social wellbeing a perfect 10, and 65.6% gave a score of 8 or above.
The NAS believes that these results demonstrate the meaningful social connections that allotments provide, with many respondents emphasizing the value of relationships and community spirit developed through allotment life.
“We used to feel invisible. Now we’re part of a little world, and people know our names,” shared one respondent.
The full survey results will be available next week, offering further insight into the value allotments bring to individuals, families, and neighborhoods across the country.
As National Allotments Week approaches, the NAS is reminded of the deep roots that allotments have in the fabric of communities. The organization stands alongside plot holders, councils, and policymakers to protect and grow this movement for future generations.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Media Contact:
Charlotte Watts
Marketing Officer, National Allotment Society
Marketing@thenas.org.uk
www.thenas.org.uk