The Allotment Improvement Grant provides up to £10,000 in funding to support projects that enhance the productivity, sustainability, and social value of allotment spaces.
Key priorities include:
- improving water access through reliable connections and rainwater harvesting
- implementing pest control measures, such as fencing
- upgrading facilities such as waterless toilets
- delivering measurable social benefits, such as promoting mental well-being, outdoor activity, and community engagement.
Other allotment improvements will also be considered, ensuring that allotments remain thriving, inclusive spaces for all.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Allotment Improvement Grant:
1. Eligible applicants:
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Allotment owners including Town/Parish Council or allotment associations based in South Cambridgeshire.
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Applications must be submitted by the allotment management group for site-wide projects (e.g. fencing the entire allotment).
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The Allotment Improvement Grant aims to ensure fair access to funding, particularly for allotment groups and community-led initiatives that may struggle to secure alternative financial support. While all eligible applications will be considered, priority will be given to groups who can evidence limited fundraising capacity.
2. Requirements:
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A detailed quote must be provided for the proposed work, such as installing pest control fencing, connecting the allotment to mains water, or adding waterless toilet facilities.
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Applications should include a completed form along with any supporting documents demonstrating the necessity and benefits of the improvements.
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Applications will also be considered for additional enhancement ideas where the need is evidenced (e.g. compost bays and polytunnels, improved site security, secure storage containers for equipment etc.)
The project must deliver tangible improvements that enhance the productivity and sustainability of allotment spaces. Specifically, the project should aim to:
1. Improve access to water:
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Secure reliable water access, such as connecting the allotment to an existing mains water supply.
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Encourage the wise use of water and supplement mains water with rainwater harvesting where possible.
2. Enhance pest control:
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Implement effective fencing solutions to protect allotments from pests such as rabbits and deer.
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Organise site-wide fencing and gating to save plot holders time and money.
3. Improve allotment facilities:
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Provide waterless toilet facilities, particularly to benefit children and the elderly.
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Consider other infrastructure improvements based on specific allotment needs.
4. Enhance social value:
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Applicants must demonstrate how their project will deliver measurable social value. This includes fostering benefits to mental health by promoting improved physical health and mental wellbeing and strengthen community connections.
Eligible costs include, but are not limited to:
1. Infrastructure improvements:
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Connection to existing water mains
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Pest control fencing – purchase and installation, including ditches
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Waterless toilet facilities
2. Capital items that improve existing facilities and enhance the site’s functionality or benefit to allotment holders such as improved communal areas or equipment storage.
The grant does not cover:
1. Ongoing revenue costs or overheads (e.g., salaries, rent, or advertising).
2. Projects that have already been completed or started.
3. Costs associated with individual allotment plots rather than site-wide improvements.
Grant awards:
Applicants can request up to £10,000 per application, subject to meeting all criteria and providing the necessary supporting documentation.
Match funding criteria:
Match funding is not a requirement however it is welcomed to support your application. These can include financial contributions, in-kind support, or other relevant resources.
This timetable is indicative and is subject to change:
|
Launch of Grant |
Early May 2025 |
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Grant Closes |
Late August 2025 |
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Applications assessed |
September / October 2025 |
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Grants Advisory Committee |
November 2025 |
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Organisations notified of decisions |
December 2025 / January 2026 |
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Grant schedules signed |
January-March 2026 |
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First payment |
April 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to consider environmentally friendly options when purchasing items for their projects. This includes the use of electrically powered equipment.
Applicants must provide the following documents to support their application:
1. A copy of the allotment association’s constitution or mission statement.
2. A quote for the proposed work.
3. A copy of the safeguarding policy.
4. Environmental Policy
5. Correspondence from the local District Councillor(s) showing support for the project.
6. Bank account details for the account payment would be made.
Grant recipients must comply with the following conditions:
1. Funding must be used only for the agreed purpose and spent within 18 months of the award, with projects to be completed no later than 31 March 2027.
2. Any publicity must acknowledge the funding provided by South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC).
3. Unused funds must be returned to SCDC.
4. A project evaluation must be submitted within three months of project completion.
If you require assistance completing the application form, please contact our Communities Team at duty.communities@scambs.gov.uk.
For any additional queries or to speak to a member of the team, you can call us on 01954 712987.
Our team is available to provide guidance and support to ensure your application is completed accurately and meets the necessary criteria.