Thousands waiting for allotments in Brighton

Fleur Wharham's application for a plot in Hove hasn't progressed for more than a year

More than 3,500 people are on waiting lists for allotments in Brighton and Hove while hundreds of plots are vacant or left neglected and overgrown.

The Brighton and Hove Allotments Federation (BHAF) said the council was "failing" on the most basic tasks of inspections, evictions and plot letting.

Council data shows there are 2,829 allotment plots in the area, with 317 vacancies despite a waiting list of 3,547.

The council said it was “really sorry” and they want to “reset” their relationship with allotment holders.

Jacob Nowinski, a site rep at Whitehawk Hill allotments, described neglected plots as “a waste” and said flowering weeds and brambles affect neighbouring plots.

Mark Carroll, chair of BHAF, said: “It looks like the most basic tasks of the allotment service aren’t actually happening. We’re talking about inspections, evictions and plot letting."

Fleur Wharham has been waiting for a plot at the Weald site in Hove for six years and has climbed from about 600th in the queue to 17th.

Brambles at neglected plots affect neighbouring plots, according to one site rep

She said she had been "so excited" about the prospect of an allotment to focus on in the wake of her husband's death.

“For it to all just come to a standstill, I’m just despairing really," she added.

There are 706 people waiting for a site a Weald Allotments.

Councillor Tim Rowkins, lead member for environment at Brighton & Hove City Council said he was “really sorry" the allotment service wasn't operating effectively.

The council said it had reviewed where improvements were needed and wanted to "reset" its relationship with the allotment federation and its members.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.