Bring Sandwell’s allotments and public land back into community use

Public land should provide lasting public benefit. Allotments, green spaces and places to grow, learn and enjoy nature are an important part of a healthy community.

We call on Sandwell Council to work with local residents to bring unused and neglected allotments and suitable public land back into community use, starting with a clear route forward for Penncricket Lane and Grafton Road allotments.

These places could offer opportunities to grow food, support wildlife, share practical skills and spend time together outdoors. Bringing suitable land into use takes planning, resources and care. Local people deserve a fair opportunity to help make it happen.

What we are asking Sandwell Council to do

1. Clarify the position of the land. Explain the ownership, current status, restrictions and future intentions for Penncricket Lane and Grafton Road allotments, including any barriers to community use.
2. Agree a practical route forward. Assess proposals for restoring allotment and community uses, considering suitable tenancy, lease, licence or Community Asset Transfer arrangements. Where a proposal cannot proceed, provide clear reasons and explore workable alternatives.
3. Protect public benefit. Make decisions about allotments and public green spaces transparent, involve affected residents early, and give proper consideration to community proposals before decisions are made about disposal or changes of use.
4. Set out the next steps. Identify a responsible council contact and publish a realistic timetable for assessment, decisions and responses.

What the community could build

The Hive Effect is a locally developed community and environmental project rooted in Oldbury and Rowley Regis. Its Bee Sixty-Eight proposal brings together community growing, beekeeping, practical learning and care for nature.

Our ambition is to help create welcoming places where people can:

• Grow food and develop gardening skills.
• Learn about pollinators, wildlife and the local environment.
• Share knowledge across generations.
• Reduce isolation through meaningful activity.
• Take an active part in caring for their neighbourhood.

Any scheme must be suited to the land, respect existing allotment holders and other lawful users, and address access, safety, environmental conditions, funding and long-term management.

A fair opportunity to put public land to work

For years, I have pursued opportunities to establish community growing and beekeeping locally. That experience helped shape The Hive Effect and a wider question: how can residents help bring land back into useful, lasting service to their communities?

We recognise that councils face competing demands and limited resources. Community proposals deserve transparent assessment, constructive discussion and clear decisions.

We are ready to work with the council, allotment holders, residents and local organisations to find a practical way forward.

By signing, you support restoring suitable allotments and public land to community use, protecting their public benefit, and asking Sandwell Council for a clear, accountable route to making that happen.

Graham Walker
Founder, The Hive Effect

Find out more: https://www.thehiveeffect.com