Lewisham's allotments are very popular. Because of the current interest in healthy, outdoor living and organic food, all of the Council's 37 allotment sites have waiting lists.

How to apply for an allotment

If you would like to be put on the waiting list please complete the allotment application form and send it to us. You must specify which sites you are applying for. You may choose up to three.

The allotments information sheet gives details of each site, facilities available on each, and estimated waiting times for a plot. All sites have water unless otherwise stated.

Community gardens

A derelict or unused piece of land, some dedication, commitment and green fingers are all that’s required to get a community garden up and running.

Our guide to community gardens provides general advice about starting, developing and running a community garden, as well as outlining some of the key issues involved.

To help you set up your garden we may be able to help to:

• provide builder’s bags for bagged planting
• identify who the land belongs to
• get permission on land managed by Lewisham Homes
• pay for soil sample tests on Council-owned land
• provide builder’s bags for bagged planting
• arrange for leases on Council-owned land.

Contact us at communitygardens@lewisham.gov.uk
Find the Community Gardens page on Facebook

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to rent an allotment site?

The exact price depends on the site and the size of the plot, but an average plot costs around £40 per year.

How big is a plot?

The average size of a plot is 125 metres square but we can also offer smaller sized plots for those with less time to manage a full plot.

Can I apply for an allotment owned by Lewisham Council if I don't live in the borough?

No. Because we currently have long waiting lists, we do not accept applications from, or offer plots to people who do not live in the borough.

Can I rent my allotment for as long as I like?

Currently our policy allows allotment holders to keep their plots for as long as they wish to. However, you are a tenant only - you cannot pass the plot on to anyone else. If you do not maintain your plot we may ask you to give it up, so that others on the waiting list can benefit from it.

Can I apply for an allotment outside of Lewisham?

Other boroughs are generally experiencing a lot of demand but do occasionally have availability. Please contact them directly for further information.