'Sad state of affairs' as no policy for allotments in Westmeath

The lack of a local policy on allotments came under scrutiny earlier this month, as Cllr Frankie Keena called on the Athlone-Moate Municipal District of Westmeath County Council to include designated sites for community gardening in the forthcoming Joint Urban Area Plan (JUAP).

Allotments are small plots of land, typically managed by local authorities, that are rented to individuals for growing their own fruit, vegetables, and flowers, which provide a space for people who may not have a garden to participate in horticulture, connect with nature, and join a community of gardeners.

Westmeath and Roscommon County Councils are currently co-operating on the development of a draft joint urban area plan for the entire Athlone area. This will be the overarching development plan for the town.

"There's no policy in place for allotments. That's a sad state of affairs for a county council. Could we identify areas in the Urban Area Plan for allotments?," said Cllr Keena.

The motion received the support of Cllr Paul Hogan, who recalled his childhood memories of the allotments at Iona Park.

"I have fond memories of the allotments at Iona Park and working there with my grandfather. They have come on a lot in recent times as community gardens, where people grow their produce in a shared space rather than separate allotments.

"They're working elsewhere, it's just a matter of finding a suitable location."

In a written response, the council executive said was no current Westmeath County Council policy covering the provision of allotments, and the "level of demand" would need to be established prior to considering further.

"The JUAP will consist of a written statement and maps indicating objectives for purposes including the creation of sustainable communities."

"This has been looked at in recent years, and there's a move towards a more community-based approach. There also needs to be an analysis of need," added Director of Services Jackie Finney.