For more than 100 years, Greystoke Community Allotments have been part of village life. Today, more than 20 families and individuals are preparing to leave the site after being required to vacate by 18 August 2026. This page explains the current situation, celebrates the history of the allotments and the people who have cared for them, and records their final growing season and the community Open Day held on 8 August.
More than a century of community growing
The allotments were established shortly after the First World War when the Howard Family of Greystoke Castle invited local residents to transform pasture into allotments so families could grow their own food during a time of national recovery.
Over a century later, the allotments remain an active and productive community space. Local families, individuals and Greystoke Primary School continue to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers, while the site provides valuable habitat for wildlife and a place where people share knowledge, produce and friendship.
Demand for allotments remains strong, with a significant waiting list for plots.
The current situation
Eviction notices dated 18 February 2026 were issued to all allotment holders. The notices followed a public meeting on 5 February, attended by 72 people, and Greystoke Parish Council’s formal objection to the development on 10 February. The Estate’s current agents have since confirmed in writing that the notices were served “following discussions with the developer regarding the future redevelopment of the site”.
The allotment land forms part of an undetermined planning application for 43 homes on land between Icold Road and Church Road: https://planningregister.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/Planning/Display/2025/2469/FPA. The allotments provide the proposed access to the wider development area, while four houses are also proposed on the allotment land itself. No planning permission had been granted when the notices were issued, and the application remains unresolved.
Despite repeated requests for a short extension to allow later-season crops to be harvested, no extension has been granted. Plot holders have therefore had to harvest crops early, remove equipment and structures, and leave remaining produce behind. No replacement allotment site has been secured; the Estate’s agents have confirmed that possible alternatives were investigated but that no suitable land was identified.
A formal request for allotment provision has also been made to Greystoke Parish Council under section 23 of the Small Holdings and Allotments Act 1908. The Council accepted that there was clear evidence of unmet demand, with at least 15 residents seeking plots and a waiting list in place.
On 4 June 2026, the allotments were formally designated an Asset of Community Value, recognising their longstanding contribution to village life, health, wellbeing, food growing and community cohesion. The Greystoke Allotments group is also a member of the National Allotment Society.
Greystoke Community Allotments Open Day
On Saturday 8 August 2026, allotment holders held a community open day, giving villagers one last chance to see the allotments before eviction. Over 70 people attended, raising over £130 for the local food bank. This really demonstrated the strength of feeling and support within the village. Some photos from the day are below.
The allotments through 2026
A collection of photographs showing the allotments through the 2026 growing season. In the final days before the deadline, plot holders were still harvesting what they could.
