A new allotmenteer, GM, writes:

'One thing that puzzles me though is..the condition of some plots. My one, and others around it look like they haven't been used in years. If this is the case, can the council not check up on them every year so we don't have such a long waiting list. I was on the list for 3 years, and was quite surprised when I saw the plot I was given. I do enjoy a challenge, though, and it keeps me fit! It's a pity that people just let their plots go, and it can sometimes affect other plots. In my case, a neighbouring shed has blown over, is blocking the path, and everyone has to go through my plot, exactly where I want to put a new shed! I have contacted the Council, and they're usually quite speedy in sorting things out. In fact they seem to be the only reliable department in the Council!'

George Sutherland, FEDAGA President, replies:

'The problems of abandoned plots and the condition of plots offered to new tenants are ones that continue to concern us at FEDAGA. Our experience is that the Council seems unwilling to take action against unsatisfactory tenants, so that plots continue to deteriorate. This means, as you have found out, that plots are in a mess when they are eventually offered to a new tenant.

A small number of sites are involved in a pilot for a limited form of Devolved Management. At my own site at Saughton we always press the Council to terminate leases for unsatisfactory tenants, but even this takes time. We see this as our duty, given the very long waiting lists.

We are hoping that once the Council have agreed their Allotment Strategy, more sites will be offered Devolved Management. It does mean more involvement for Site Committees, but we think that this is worthwhile.'