SIR,

According to the Smallholdings and Allotment Act, 1908, when at least six electors express a desire to rent an allotment, the Local Authority must provide suitable, conveniently located land for this purpose.

If the Local Authority does not own suitable land, it has the power to purchase or rent land from local landowners using compulsory purchase or rental orders if necessary.

Monmouthshire County Council's responsibility in this matter is not optional, it is obligatory, and action can be taken against the Council if it does not comply with this legislation.

As a Town Councillor representing the ward of Wyesham, my immediate concern is for the people living in this ward. I believe that there are probably more than six people living in Wyesham who would like the opportunity to rent an allotment in a locality close to their home, and the most obvious piece of land available is the old infant school site.

If you live in Wyesham and would like the opportunity to rent an allotment, please let me know by leaving your name and contact details with the Town Clerk who can be reached by telephone on 715662, in person at the Clerk's office in Priory Street or by e.mail at [email protected]">[email protected].

I would also like to hear from people living in Wyesham who are already on the waiting list for one of the Chippenham allotments.

Ann Were

(Monmouth)