Caleb Morris a Master’s student at York University is carrying out some important research looking the feasibility of forming an Allotment Cooperative as an Urban Food System in York. As part of this research he would love to understand the opinions of allotment holders on the use and purposes of their allotments and produce. He is looking for 50 participants to complete an online survey which should take no more than 15 minutes to complete. Please visit: https://york.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7UL8pCAXXGYlscm

The National Allotment Society is calling on all allotmenteers to help secure the future of allotments. They are calling for support for Amendment 4 to Clause 47 of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which would require councils to include a clear policy for allotment and community garden land in their spatial development strategies. This simple amendment will help protect and create these vital spaces.

“Without action, we could risk losing these valuable green spaces forever. Supporting this amendment will help safeguard allotments for future generations, promote healthier lifestyles, and strengthen communities.”

Please lend your support by contacting your MP and asking them to support Amendment 4 to Clause 47. You can download the letter the National Allotment Society have prepared and send it to your local MP to show your support and protect our allotments for the future.

We’re pleased to share details of some available allotments in Rufforth. There are currently 8 full plots available, with the potential to split two of the plots into half plots. Each full plot is 25M x 6M, with half plots 12.5M x 6M.

The rent for full plots is £35. A first year deposit of £35 is also required, which is returnable if the plot holder leaves and hands back the plot in good condition. Half plots are £18 + £18 deposit.

Sheds are not allowed but there is a large metal communal shed with individual tool hanging space for plot holders. This is a very high security shed with a police approved locking system, Anyone wishing to use it can rent a key, this is returnable if a plot holder leaves. 

For more information, please contact Rufforth allotment Site Secretary, Graham Mathers on 01904 738128 or rufforthallotments@gmail.com

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) housing measures for poultry & captive birds in England will be lifted from 00:01 on 15 May. If you intend to allow your birds outside after 15 May, take action now to prepare outside areas. As birds may have been housed for several months, there will be a 7 day transition period from 00:01 on 15 May until 00:01 on 22 May 2025 during which, where necessary, previously housed birds must be released gradually to minimise welfare issues. Keepers with any welfare concerns about their birds should speak to their vet. We would like to thank all bird keepers for playing their part in managing this disease. See GOV.UK for info: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-housing-measures-lifted. The AIPZ mandating biosecurity measures will remain in place across GB: www.gov.uk/bird-flu.

As of Monday 27th January, York is in the new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ).

This means that all allotment holders who keep birds must keep them housed to protect them from bird flu. Please follow the guidance here to make sure you are complying with the housing and biosecurity measures to keep your birds safe and prevent further outbreaks.