How to Get an Allotment in Preston, Lancashire (Complete Guide)
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
If you’re looking to grow your own food, save money, and spend more time outdoors, getting an allotment in Preston is a fantastic option.
But with long waiting lists and high demand, knowing exactly how the process works can help you get started sooner and make the most of your growing journey.
What Is an Allotment?
An allotment is a rented plot of land where you can grow:
Fruit and vegetables
Flowers
Herbs
They’re a great way to:
Stay active and improve wellbeing
Meet new people
Grow your own low-cost food
Support local wildlife and green spaces
Where Are Allotments Located in Preston?
Preston City Council manages several allotment sites across the city, including:
Deepdale (Blackpool Road / Sir Tom Finney Way)
Haslam Park (Blackpool Road / Bristow Avenue)
Penwortham Holme East & West
Serpentine sites (near Moor Park)
Sharoe Green (Fulwood)
There are also self-managed sites like:
Frenchwood Allotments
Moor Nook Allotments
These can sometimes have shorter waiting lists.
How to Apply for an Allotment in Preston
To get an allotment in Preston, follow these steps:
1. Check eligibility
You must live within the Preston City Council boundary
Non-residents are currently not eligible for council plots
2. Read the tenancy guidelines
Before applying, it’s important to understand:
Rules for maintaining your plot
Expected cultivation levels
Time commitment required
3. Join the waiting list
You’ll need to complete an online application form and select up to two preferred sites. Waiting lists are currently very high demand.
How Long Is the Waiting List?
Demand for allotments in Preston has increased significantly.
Over 1,100 people are currently waiting
Around 650 plots are available
Estimated wait time: 2.5 to 3 years (or longer)
Smaller sites like Haslam Park and Sharoe Green may take even longer.
Important: Allotments Require Commitment
Allotments are incredibly rewarding, but they are not low-maintenance.
You’ll need:
Around 5–8 hours per week
Regular upkeep (weeding, planting, watering)
Consistent progress to meet council standards
Required targets:
25% of plot cultivated within 3 months
50% within 6 months
Fully managed within 12 months
Many new tenants give up within the first year, so it’s important to be realistic.
How Much Does an Allotment Cost?
Typical annual costs:
Regular plot (~125m²): £52 per year
Concession: £26 per year
Large plot (~250m²): £104 per year
Want to Start Growing Sooner?
If you don’t want to wait years, there are other options.
Join a community garden
Let’s Grow Preston connects people with:
and so much more!
This is a great way to:
Learn skills
Meet people
Start growing immediately
Try alternative options
Share a plot with friends or family
Grow vegetables at home
Join a self-managed allotment site
How Let’s Grow Preston Can Help
At Let’s Grow Preston, we support people across Preston to:
Access community gardens
Increase mental and physical wellbeing while building confidence before taking on an allotment
If you’re on a waiting list, this is the perfect way to get started while you wait.
Final Thoughts
Getting an allotment in Preston takes time, but it’s worth it.
With the right preparation, commitment, and support, you can:
Grow your own food
Become part of a thriving local community
FAQ: Allotments in Preston
How do I apply for an allotment in Preston?
You can apply through Preston City Council by completing their online form and joining a waiting list.
How long does it take to get an allotment in Preston?
Most people wait 2–3 years, although some sites may take longer.
Can I get an allotment if I don’t live in Preston?
No. Currently only residents within the Preston City Council boundary are eligible.
Are there faster alternatives to allotments?
Yes — community gardens and self-managed sites often have shorter waiting times.
How much time does an allotment require?
You should expect to spend at least 5–8 hours per week maintaining your plot.
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