We have completed the first phase of improvements to the allotments by resurfacing much of the tracks within the allotments. We have transformed what were badly rutted and muddy tracks that were difficult to negotiate, even in a car, by laying down a new stone surface.
The project has received funding from the ‘Community Means Business’ programme, a £1.4m area based community regeneration programme, funded through the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) LEADER approach. Defra is the ‘Managing Authority’ for the RDPE and is responsible for implementation under EU law. The Programme is jointly funded by the EU through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the Government.
On the second day of the work twelve members volunteered as labourers to help lay the top surface by raking and levelling the stone ready to be rolled smooth.
Many of the allotments are now more easily accessible for all. We hope to be able to extend these improvements to the remainder of the tracks as and when further funds can be obtained.
This is the first of a series of projects that GAGA included in its LEADER grant application to regenerate the Allotments by improving facilities and to build an Allotments community. Future projects include building a meeting hut, providing a composting toilet, and investigating ways of alleviating the effects of flooding on those allotments that are prone to flooding. To support these projects GAGA will need to identify further funding sources.
We would especially like to thank the volunteer members who put in a tremendous effort on the second day of the works. Thanks also go to Gnosall Parish Council who suggested we apply for a LEADER grant and allowed us to do the work.
Simon Whittick
Project Leader
Links
Gnosall Gardens & Allotments 
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