Click on one of the questions below to display the answer. A second click will close the answer.
Applying
What is the process for viewing a plot?
Our membership secretary will ask you to contact a site rep or assistant site rep when you reach the top of the waiting list. They will agree a date to give you an induction to show you around the site and a potential plot. You will then be asked to contact the site rep/assistant site rep afterwards to confirm your interest. You will then be sent a tenancy agreement with details for payment for your rent. Once you return a signed tenancy agreement and we confirm receipt of rent you will receive the gate code for your site.
How long will it take for me to get a plot?
If you have chosen a specific Bower Ashton site then as long as up to 24 months. If you have chosen any Bower Ashton site then it could be around 18 months. Our Alderman Moore’s site is larger, with higher turnover and a waiting list of around 9 months currently.
How much do plots cost?
We currently only let Small Plots (£40) and Very Small Plots (£22)
Can I get discount on the rent?
Yes, dependent on what benefits or support you qualify for. Please ensure this request is recorded in your application form and with the Membership Secretary.
My partner/housemate/co-habitee has a plot? Can I also have one?
No. In order to maximise the number of households that we are able to offer plots to we are no longer offering plots to members of the same household.
Plot Matters
How do I give notice/give up my plot?
Please contact your site rep AND the membership secretary via the contact form. If it is approaching August – October, please also inform the Treasurer so that you are not issued an invoice.
Can I move plots?
Maybe. We are not able to promise “first refusal” of a plot that may come available in the event you would like to move but if you would like to downsize to a smaller plot or move for another reason then we may be able to accommodate. Please contact the membership secretary.
Can I have another plot?
No. Due to the length of our waiting list, our need for more volunteers and our intention to serve as many households as possible we
I’m going away, can someone else look after my plot?
Answer needed here
Can I share my plot?
Sub-letting your plot will result in your tenancy being terminated as it is against our head lease with BCC. We are currently developing a process to introduce formal “co-workers” and “helpers”. You are welcome to have helpers on the plot but as the tenant, if you are absent for an extended period of time, we may assume that you are sub-letting and look to end your tenancy. It is important that you introduce your co-workers/helpers to your site rep.
Can someone else take over my plot?
No. Only in the event of death can someone inherit a plot. We are currently reviewing this process.
Inspections
What do I do if I’m not able to maintain my plot to the standards of the tenancy agreement?
Missing answer here.
When are inspections?
Plot Inspections take place twice a year, with a follow up inspection if you receive a Notice to Improve as a result of either inspection. The first inspection will take place in start of April/end of May with a second in end June/start August
Can I appeal a Notice to Improve or a Notice to Quit?
Yes – if you think there are exacerbating circumstances that haven’t been taken into account such as illness then please get in touch with the chair and your site rep immediately. Notices to Quit may be appealed in person to the committee. Please see the Inspections policy for full detail. We will always make reasonable adjustments if we are aware of circumstances so please try to get in touch before inspection periods.
Shop Matters
When is the shop open?
10:30 – 12:00 Saturdays and Sundays.
Does the shop sell XYZ?
Please check the shop page for latest stock news.
If you still looking for information, try our Rules and Policies page or our Advice page. Or you can contact us.