Like many sites we suspended plot inspections back in March
and put in measures to support those isolating, shielded and with problems.
Plot buddies helped maintained a small number of the plots to ensure when the
plot holder returned, they didn’t face a jungle and a mountain of a task. The
site always remained open albeit with several new rules to ensure everyone’s
health and safety.
Today we continue to now face a winter of new tiered uncertainty
and challenges. We have dealt with changing the site locks and reissuing key
and collecting rent and issuing shares and are preparing to hold our first
committee meeting. But is it now time to reintroduce plot inspections?
A small number of plots remain on support, but many have
returned to their owner’s hands. However, of the plots who did not request
support or want it, not all have been attended or continually maintained. So,
we have a decision to make, and one probably facing other sites too. Do we resume
plot inspections now, as we normally would, or leave it till Spring? If we
leave it till Spring are we sure that the situation will be back to normal by
March?
If we inspect today, we can ensure all plots are ready for
winter, waste is composted, the plots are weed free and all are awaiting Spring
sowing and planting? There are obviously winter crops and those over wintering,
but the rest should be cleared. Some will cover the unused areas in tarpaulin,
others with manure and some just dug over all ready for Spring.
The question is do we, or do we not, have inspections?
If we don’t a small number of plots will remain as they are
today and will be even harder to get into shape in the Spring. A small number
of plots today are in an unacceptable state. Some covered in rampant bindweed and couch grass and their
paths have been neglected. These will certainly be harder to clear when those
weeds become reinvigorated. Some who have failed to get on top of their plots
this year face a real task next year if they do not clear the plot today. Some
would question if they should retain the plot when we have a 250% over
subscribed waiting list today?
I do not have the answer, it is up to the committee to
decide. Allowance can always be made for the genuine case and we have a couple
of those. However, if some want to work the plot as a patchwork quilt (a small
square a season) perhaps it is time for them to downsize or move on. Those who
do not have the time will probably never have the time. We have already reached
10% allocation of half plots and this looks likely to increase.
However, it’s ironic that several plots have again attracted
my eye this year. Four are worked by octogenarians who have continued to turn
up regularly in all weathers and whose work ethic and plots are a joy to
witness. I hope I can show the same commitment when I reach that age. The
schoolchildren’s plot which was maintained by the caretaker during the school
closure has once again seen the return of the kids. The doctor’s plot which has
been shared with her NHS key worker colleagues as a respite from their constant
pressures is looking the best it has in years. In fact many plots are now
looking the best they have for some time and have certainly been productive
this year.
Plot inspections are always hard as we are not always aware
of the circumstances as to why the plot has not been fully worked. We also have
to acknowledge that different ethnic groups not only grow different produce but
maintain their plots differently. But all plots should be cleared at the end of
the season.
Normally plot inspections cover the plot’s total growing area,
the maintenance of adjacent path, the storage at the back of the plot or lack
of rubbish collected.
We normally give a failed plot 14 days to fix it or appeal
against it. If the failure remains and no appeal is upheld then the plot holder
is given 14 days notice. However, if we decide to fail a plot this late in the
year it would appear only fair to give them say six weeks to fix the issue.
This extension is needed due to the shorter days, more volatile weather and the
fact that rubbish has to be cleared also.
Whatever is decided I am sure the message will get out that
inspections are on the agenda again and that is enough to motivate some.
