In an attempt to stop children trespassing on the site, Chairman Jan Carter piled a load of cut branches against the gate at the bottom of the site. This gate was closed off 12 years ago and is used by children to gain access to the site. The children use footholds provided by the hinges and lock mechanism on the gate to get over. The branches piled against the gate prevented this. However, a local resident complained to the Council and the branches have had to be removed.

Bolton Council have stated that they will re-instate the bottom gate and repair it if necessary. The Council have also pledged to get the area visited by a security contractor to see if security can be improved. The gate, according to The Council is necessary for access at “all times” by emergency services, however the gate is frequently blocked by cars and trucks which prevent access (the reason it was closed off in the first place). If you spot any vehicles blocking the gate entrance, please report this to the Allotment Service. It has been pointed out to The Council that double yellow lines will be required on both sides of the road to prevent the entrance being blocked, so the more evidence we can provide, the better.

If you don’t have allotment insurance, we advise taking some out. Any children who are trespassing and injure themselves on your plot have the right to sue you under the Occupiers Liability Act 1984. Allotment insurance costs £3 per year if you are a member of The Society.