Hello

A fair bit to share with everyone this month so here goes.

Plant swap – I hope those of you able to attend enjoyed it. There were a few more there than last year but again the overcast conditions may have prohibited some. Any feedback would be welcomed. See report on the website.

Website – The new site is up and running. Again, if you have any thoughts about content or any visuals that could enhance the site further, please let me know. Address is as follows:

www.harbornehillallotments.org

Site issues 

Tree work – This is on going with the remaining work along Harborne Road scheduled when the road is partially closed towards the end of July and the corner of Nursery and Kingscote Roads. There are plenty of chippings remaining on the grassed area between Harborne and Yateley Roads.

Water – With the hot spells we’ve been having, extra demands are made on water supplies. We all have to make sure we use supplies as carefully as possible, by reporting any leaks or malfunctioning from the water taps or pipes, using water from water butts only and not using hoses to water plants directly. Water butts can be purchased from the shop at £15 each.

Music – The Allotment Rules do not prohibit the playing of radios but I would ask if you do use a radio, be considerate of the needs of others.

Speeding – Once again, I need to mention the 5mph speed limit on site. There have been instances where some drivers see the track as a Silverstone racing circuit. We will be working on more appropriate visible signage. 

Shop – Shop products with prices are both on the noticeboard between the shop and office and on the website. Anyone interested in helping with staffing the shop, let me know.

Two plot holders have been nominated in the BDAC’s Best Newcomer competition. Good luck to them both.

Association

At the last Committee meeting, a number of potential projects were shared. Three were agreed, social events, noticeboard renewal and content and replacement of tool locker doors and fixing guttering. The latter is conditional on finding someone willing and able to undertake the work for which there will be payment. If anyone is willing to assist or can recommend 

Other ideas shared included:

  • Surplus produce. Every year there is a glut of some products. Opportunities to co-ordinate  site surplus produce could be developed with churches, other community groups or a local baker who has also approached us requesting any surplus. In return the latter will offer to supply samples of food for events and give 5% discount for plot holders. Contact me if interested.
  • Nursery Road entrance flower/herb boxes. A stand alone project with possible links to surplus produce, is to utilise two large planters for growing either flowers, herbs or both. Again, if interested let me know.
  • History of allotment site. This has arisen since the last Committee meeting when I was asked by Calthorpe Residents Society to write an article for their newsletter on the site’s history. There is nothing on our website and little in the way of oral history as far as I’ve been able to determine. If one or more people are interested in collecting available material and collating into a readable piece, please contact me.

Information from BDAC & BOSF

North Summerfield Residents are having a plant and flower swap this coming Thursday. All invited. See attached flyer.

The BDAC have responded to some proposed changes from BCC to the Allotment Rules. They are still seeking feedback until 1/8/25. See link and attachment below.

https://bdacallotments.co.uk/2025/05/20/bcc-proposed-rule-changes-2025

Regards.

Tim