Support for grow-your-own plan

THE good life could soon be beckoning residents in Saddleworth following a move to create several new allotments.

More than 40 gardeners at an Uppermill meeting backed the plan to set up a pilot scheme. Existing sites in Diggle, Delph and Lees are thriving and already have long waiting lists.

Organisers on the Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership now hope that the £10,000 they have put to one side will fund expanding projects.

Councillor Barbara Beeley said: “More and more people want to grow some of their own food, buy locally-produced food and cut down their food miles.

“People are more aware these days and the fact that there are waiting lists shows the demand.”

An area of council-owned Green Belt land in Uppermill, between the canal and the river near Dungebooth Lock, will be used as the tester site to gauge interest.

Further locations, including land behind the Denshaw Village Hall, and in Diggle, Grotton, Austerlands and Lees are also being explored.

Organisers also want to explore the use of half-size plots, plot sharing and community gardens.

Councillor Beeley added: “Some people find the traditional allotment size daunting but these ideas will make it more manageable.

“There are others who would want to share the plot with friends or family.

“I think this is great for Saddleworth and Lees.”

A link on the Saddleworth Parish Council website will soon be set up for locals to express their interest and find out more information.Visit the website at www.saddleworthparishcouncil.org.uk .