Alliance Councillor Andrew Muir has highlighted the growing demand across the Ards and North Down Council area for additional allotment provision.
Councillor Muir has been a strong advocate for allotments and was speaking after Councillors discussed an initial report from Council officers. Councillor Muir said: “There is no doubt about the wide range of benefits an allotment can bring, both for an individual and the wider community. An individuals physical and mental wellbeing can be strengthened from being active in the fresh air, while having a supply of freshly grown fruit and vegetables helps reduce expenditure on weekly shopping bills. Allotments are a great place for people to meet, share ideas and help each other and so a real community spirit can be developed.
“I am pleased my campaign for greater allotment provision has been receiving increasing support both from Councillors and the wider community. Council officers have made good progress with their initial report. The next stage is to identify the level and areas of demand, identify suitable locations and how they could be funded, and the likely fees payable. This is an exciting time for an initiative that can bring great benefits to our area and community.”