ALLOTMENT holders are to have a big say in how their plots are revamped.

Kirklees Council has agreed to spend more than £1m on improving allotments across the area.

And they have asked the gardeners to tell them exactly what they want.

The council has carried out an extensive survey to find out more about the views of their allotment holders and the results will directly influence how the money will be spent over the next three years.

As well as helping to improve allotments and providing safe and secure sites for existing tenants, there will also be improvements made in order to attract new tenants to take up a site of their own and reap the

many health and social benefits that allotments have to offer.

Some 1,850 surveys were sent out to all allotment holders, with 727 (39%) responding. Letters were also sent out to site secretaries asking for their suggestions, as well as a site inventory and a visit by council staff.

Key findings included:

Top reasons for having allotments included exercise, fresh produce and being close to nature.

31% of respondents have had their allotment for over 10 years, with 15% being relative newcomers having had their plots for less than a year.

32% found their plots overgrown when they too them on, closely followed by 19%

describing theirs as derelict and 18% as poorly maintained.

Most of tenants live close to their allotment site with 71% living less than a mile away and 22% living between 1 and 3 miles

A Kirklees Council spokesman said: “The information provided by the survey will prove invaluable. We need to know from the allotment holders themselves what their concerns are and where things can be improved.

“We have money to invest in allotments across Kirklees but we are well aware that there are issues that need to be tackled”.

She said there were many benefits to be had from people owning allotments.

“There are 1,874 allotments in Kirklees on around 100 sites. Allotments vary in shape and size but the majority are about 200 square yards and ideal for the enthusiastic gardener. Most allotments have access to a water supply.

“Having an allotment means you can grow your own fresh fruit and vegetables, enjoy the fresh air and keep yourself healthy with a little exercise.

“It's also a great way to meet friends and relax.

“You can choose what you grow on your allotment and with planning permission, you can put up a greenhouse or garden shed.

“On certain sites you are allowed to keep a few hens and rabbits”.

For information ring 01484 234026.