Policy information sourced from the Barking & Dagenham Local Plan

DMNE 6 Local food growing including allotments

Existing allotments

1.

Redevelopment of existing allotments will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances where it can be demonstrated that they are no longer needed by the community or existing allotment users are relocated to an alternative allotment that is within reasonable proximity to their homes and of a comparable quality.

Creation of new food growing opportunities

2.

Proposals for community food growing and gardening will be encouraged in line with Policy G8 of the London Plan 2021, particularly where this forms part of the overall landscaping and open space strategy for residential development or as part of a school, playground or recreational area. Innovative food growing solutions, such as edible landscaping, rooftop growing, vertical and hydroponic and indoor growing will be strongly encouraged.

3.

Major residential-led developments should consider community food growing opportunities and provide a strategy for the ongoing management of this.

4.

Proposals for new allotments will be supported where there is a local need, demonstrated through appropriate engagement with key stakeholders and the local community, and where this does not prejudice alternative land uses from coming forward, including residential use.

5.

All new community food growing areas should include access for disabled residents, access to water and irrigation and access to composting facilities.

6.

Food growing is also encouraged as a meanwhile use on vacant or under-utilised sites.