Lesley Acton's new publication is an accessible social history book that looks at how changing economic, political and cultural conditions have affected the demand for plots. A thorough study debunks the myth that the provision of allotments was solely a benign activity for the poor, but a highly politicised history which reflects national and local policies on land use with a constant struggle to hold onto these city fields and country gardens.
There are currently over 300,000 allotment plots in the UK, with roughly 100,000 people on waiting lists. Allotments are popular, and under threat.
Growing Space takes over from Five Leaves’ The Allotment: Its landscape and culture which has been a steady seller for many years. The book is illustrated throughout with black & white and colour photographs.
Copies are available for £14.99, post-free from Five Leaves Bookshop (0115 837 3097)
Lesley is in contact with allotmenteers nationwide, and runs the popular website www.allotmentresources.org
