Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: March 31, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 11.1 This report seeks approval to introduce changes to the Council’s Allotment Handbook and tenancy agreements and introduce the new Council Allotment Regulations and Policies. The report summarises allotment law and explains how the new tenancy agreement enables the Council to work towards the outcomes of the Council Plan and continue its statutory duty to provide quality allotment sites for people to grow their own food. The report provides an update to the Allotment Strategy and sets out actions on future proposals.     11.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Communities, Parks and Leisure Policy Committee:-   (a)  notes the contents of the report;   (b)  approves the content and proposed implementation of The Council Allotment Regulations and Policies;   (c)  approves the new Allotment Tenancy Agreement; and   (d)  approves the approach to the allotment strategy review.     11.3 Reasons for Decision     11.3.1 The Communities, Parks, and Leisure Committee is recommended to approve the proposed tenancy agreement, regulations and policy to ensure the effective management of Sheffield’s allotments. The proposed revisions have been developed in consultation with the Allotment Advisory Group (AAG) to reflect best practices and statutory requirements.     11.3.2 Approval of these changes will establish a robust and enforceable tenancy agreement, ensuring the Council meets its statutory obligations while aligning with the objectives outlined in the Council Plan and the Sheffield Green & Open Spaces Strategy.     11.3.3 Failure to approve these revisions would compromise the Council’s ability to enforce tenancy agreements effectively, leading to continued breaches, increased administrative challenges and potential non-compliance with statutory responsibilities. This would negatively impact the long-term sustainability and management of the allotment estate, as well as hinder progress towards the strategic goals set out in the Council Plan and the Sheffield Green & Open Spaces Strategy.     11.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     11.4.1 Alternative Option 1: Do nothing   Maintaining the existing tenancy agreements and policies has been discounted due to the challenges outlined in the preceding sections. This option was discounted as the prolonged process of terminating tenancies following breaches imposes a significant administrative and financial burden on the Council. Additionally, it negatively impacts existing tenants, allotment officers, and the overall condition of the allotment estate. Furthermore, allotments that are not used for their intended purpose undermine the sustainability and effectiveness of the allotment system, reducing the benefits these spaces provide to the community.     11.4.2 Alternative Option 2: Make several phased/minor amendments to the existing regulations and policies.   This was discounted due to resource and time available.