Project leaders hope to grow allotments plans for Aviemore
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Organisers are hoping that their plans to create the first allotments in Aviemore will bear fruit.
A new group has been set up to establish demand and wants to hear from those interested.
One possible site identified for the allotments is at the old primary school at Milton Park.
Group spokeswoman Judith Marten said: “Our year of lockdown has resulted in one hugely positive development – many more people are growing their own vegetables, from young families to the retired.
“Gardening has seen a surge in popularity and to this end, a small group of us are feeling a need for expansion into allotments.
“It’s shameful, in fact, that Aviemore has none at the moment, and we are wondering what take-up there would be if some land was secured for this use.
“How many people would be interested in having their own allotment to grow vegetables, fruit and flowers, and to provide the physical benefits that come with this?
“The ideal spot for this would be the spare land beside the old primary school. Being currently owned by Highland Council, this is likely to take some time to get organised, so we might be looking at using some private land to start off the project. What we need to know beforehand is how many would like to join this initiative.
“We all know the mental health benefits of producing our own vegetables, and we are now learning more about the environmental benefits of growing our own five-a-day food locally.
"On top of that, there are now concerns about fragile international supply chains for imported food, and last of all we mustn’t forget how delicious vegetables taste when eaten straight from the garden!"
Fellow supporter Magda Gatenby said: “This is an initiative that I feel strongly about – not only is it vital that we grow more of our own food locally, rather than importing it, but it is also necessary and fun to teach our children from an early age.
“I have been talking to my friends in Aviemore and there is great enthusiasm among the young families for this project.”
The area occupied by the former school is currently included within the council’s strategic housing investment plan for development of affordable housing.
The former playing field, adjacent to the ex-school site, is designated for community use.
Local Highland councillor Bill Lobban said: “Over the years there have been a few attempts to introduce allotments in Aviemore none of which have borne fruit.
“Part of the old primary school site has been allocated for community use, but whether or not it is suitable for allotments remains to be seen as it has always been subject to quite regular flooding.
“In the past many people in Aviemore had access to a garden, but with the ever increasing number of flats maybe this time we will see more interest.”
A council spokesperson said: “We welcome any local groups who may be interested in the site for community-related projects to get in touch with the council.
“In the first instance, they should contact the ward manager (Liz Cowie)."
* Anyone interested in getting involved can email organisers at aviemoreallotments@gmail.com
