FOLLOWING a successful campaign to prevent the possible development of the Whitedown allotment site for housing, the Alton Allotment Association is encouraging those under similar threat to "fight on".
Writing in the third issue of 'Allotment and Leisure Gardener' magazine, AAA chairman Mike Galpin tells fellow allotment holders that the trick would seem to be "to accumulate a mass of material that might possibility be of value" in opposing any development plans, even if it seems somewhat obscure and would need a lawyer to use it to full potential.
Furthermore, he advises "don't spell it out in detail but just hint at the information" and allow the opposition to worry over it.
"There is a lot of information available which at first sight looks a dead cert but then you find it doesn't quite fit these circumstances. Don't let that put you off. Keep that piece and look around for something else to support it," adds Mr Galpin who points out that PPGs (Parliamentary Planning Guidance) and HMS information offices are a good source of information, as is the NSALG and the Library Service for reference to Allotment Law.
In acknowledging the need for allotment holders to become totally focused on the subject if they are to successfully stave off development, Mr Galpin also stressed the important of enlisting public support. In the case of Whitedown the AAA was, he said, greatly indebted to a large number of the community who lobbied local councillors, wrote letters to the newspapers and signed petitions.
"They made us feel proud and indignant at the very idea that someone should suggest building houses on our allotments," said Mr Galpin who also paid tribute to Alton Town Council for allowing a four- month consultation period in which to make their case.
"Although four months is a long time to keep the subject of allotments to the forefront of the public eye, even in a small community like Alton," he said.
Alton allotment holders were supported in their battle by the NSALG (National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners) whose members see themselves as custodians of allotments for future generations.
"Once built on they can never be replaced," warned NSALG publicity officer, David Gibbs. "To view them merely as a disposable capital asset is contrary to all contemporary enlightened planning criteria and appreciation of the importance of open spaces to complement the ever increasing pressure of housing density."
Buoyed by the success of the Alton campaign, Mr Galpin has offered to share his team's experience in helping to help protect allotment sites elsewhere in the country.
"If there is something we have learned and you would like to know, give us a call," offers Mr Galpin adding: "We will win, We can win. We have done it!"