Council’s allotments improvement programme reaches final phase

A major £158,000 programme to improve and expand allotment facilities across the borough is nearing completion, with the final and most substantial phase of work about to begin at Beeston View in Chester.

The scheme, funded through Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions, has delivered a wide range of improvements that support healthier lifestyles, local food growing and improved access to green spaces.

Over the past year, the Council has completed a series of significant upgrades across several sites. At Crescent Road in Ellesmere Port, unused ground has been cleared and transformed into new allotment plots, accompanied by new security fencing, a water supply and a refreshed access path and parking area.

Improvements at Brook Lane in Chester have created a new DDA‑compliant access track loop and begun a programme of water system upgrades to support growers throughout the year.

Nelson Road in Ellesmere Port has benefitted from new security fencing, while at the Poplars site, surfacing along the Wilsons Lane access track has been improved and new passing points added. Additional unused land has also been cleared to create a designated vehicle turning area.

Works are continuing at the Willaston allotments, where long‑standing drainage issues are being addressed through a series of investigations, repairs and new installations. The existing drainage ditch is being cleared and re‑levelled, and improvements are being made to the pond area to increase both drainage capacity and ecological value.

The project will end with the renovation of the Beeston View allotments, representing the largest phase of the scheme. Preparatory work includes pruning back the boundary hedge and removing the outdated fencing. A key element of the improvements will be the installation of new heritage‑style Cheshire rail fencing along the Beeston View boundary. This decision follows direct feedback from nearby residents, who raised concerns about the original fencing proposal. In response, the project team reviewed the design and selected a more sympathetic style that reflects the character of the surrounding area, including the estate fencing at the entrance to the Meadows and across the Duke’s estate.

Additional work at Beeston View will include resetting and rehanging the existing gates, creating a clearer boundary between the allotment site and the public right of way, and gapping‑up the hedge at the corner to strengthen natural screening.

Improvements will also be made to the water system, and unused ground will be cleared to create new plots. A new length of fencing and a rear vehicle gate will be installed to further enhance access and security.

Cllr Stuart Bingham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride said:

“This has been a hugely successful project that has delivered real improvements for local communities across the borough. Allotments play an important role in helping residents grow healthy food at home, spend time outdoors and build stronger community connections.

“I’m delighted that we have been able to invest in these sites and respond positively to feedback from residents, particularly at Beeston View, where the final design is now much more in keeping with the local setting. The completion of this programme will bring lasting benefits for allotment holders and the wider community for years to come.”

Pictured - The Willaston allotments.