Allotments

Seaton Valley Council Allotment Sites

We are aware of the importance of allotments to our community and is working hard to not only meet the needs of plot holders, but also to ensure that it is working with the community to provide a balanced environment for future generations.

Allotments provide the opportunity for fresh air and exercise for those interested in growing fruit, vegetables and flowers. They also provide the chance to make new friends with other like-minded people.

We manage 13 sites. Our plot sizes range from as small as 30 m sq to as large as over 400 m sq.

We produce a yearly newsletter for out Allotment Tenants.  Allotment Talk Issue 10

Allotment site in summer

Shown below is a list of the Council’s allotment sites:

  • Ancroft Road, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0ER – Map
  • Baxter Terrace, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0AP – Map
  • Beresford Road, Seaton Sluice, NE26 4RH – Map
  • Dartford Close, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0BY – Map
  • Gloria Avenue, New Hartley, NE25 0RY – Map
  • Hall Farm, Holywell, NE25 0LB – Map
  • Memorial Playing Fields, New Hartley, NE25 0RP – Map
  • Seaton Terrace, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0BY – Map
  • Seghill Road, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0QJ – Map
  • Victoria Close, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0BY – Map
  • West Terrace, Seaton Sluice, NE26 4RE – Map
  • Coppergate, Holywell, NE25 0TT – Map

Coppergate in Holywell is under devolved management arrangements.  This means that a formally constituted allotment association leases the site from Seaton Valley Council, and reinvests the revenue it collects from rents on maintenance repairs and capital items.

Avian Flu (Bird Flu)

Mandatory housing measures for poultry and captive birds, which were introduced across various counties to prevent the spread of bird flu, will be lifted from Thursday 15 May, the Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed today.

The latest risk assessment supported by the best scientific evidence shows that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry has reduced. This means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can now be kept outside.

The lifting of housing measures applies to all areas unless keepers are in a Protection Zone or Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone – these are areas where there has been a recent outbreak.

Birds

Scrupulous biosecurity is the best deterrent to stopping the spread of avian influenza. Birdkeepers are legally required to adhere to the highest biosecurity standards with an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) mandating strict biosecurity remaining in place in England, Scotland and Wales. This includes measures such as disinfecting footwear, clothing and vehicles and equipment before and after entering premises.

Bird gatherings, such as fairs and markets, remain banned.

Keepers are encouraged to take action to prevent bird flu and stop it spreading. Be vigilant for signs of disease and report it to keep your birds safe

Government bird keeping registration rule change.

In England and Wales you must register up 49 poultry or other kept birds by 1 October 2024. This includes any birds you keep as pets.

You’re breaking the law if you do not register.

By registering:

  • the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) will contact you with updates and guidance if there’s a disease outbreak (such as bird flu) in your area
  • you’ll help prevent the spread of disease and protect all kept birds, including back yard flocks

Visit the GOV.UK website to complete the registration (opens in a new tab).


Allotments Waiting List

We are accepting applications for allotment plots in Seaton Delaval.  However, we are NOT currently accepting applications for allotment sites in Seaton Sluice and New Hartley

Please be aware that we only have a limited number of allotment plots available and we will allocate these to applicants based on your date of application and site preference.

We cannot guarantee when a plot will become available but your name will remain on the waiting list until we are able to allocate you a suitable allotment plot.

Complete an Allotment Application Form by clicking here 

Note:  You must be resident in Seaton Valley to apply for one of our allotment plots.

You can request an Allotment Application Form in the post by contacting us on 0191 2379870.

Lettings and Management Policy

In March 2023 the Allotments Lettings and Management Policy was agreed by council.

The policy is to clarify the respective roles and responsibilities of the council and its allotment tenants.

The Policy can viewed here…


Allotment Rents 2026/27

Our allotment plot rents are decided by Full Council each year based on the size of the plot in square meters and the relative cost of maintaining and improving allotments sites across the Seaton Valley area. New plot holders are also required to pay a £75.00 deposit, which is refundable depending on the condition of the plot if and when the tenancy agreement is terminated.

Size (square meters) Cost
0 – 50 sq m £62.03
51 – 100 sq m £75.44
101 – 200 sq m £79.88
201 – 300 sq m £83.64
301 – 400 sq m £92.98
401 – 450 sq m £102.24
451 – 999 sq m £111.55

Useful tips on maintaining soil fertility

Fertile soil is essential for organic gardening. The soil needs to be managed so that the structure, fertility and living organisms in the soil are protected and developed.

To promote the soils fertility you can add manure and plant remains which will maintain the soils humus levels. This will feed the soil life which is essential for a healthy soil and provide plant nutrients. Green manures can be grown to protect and feed the soil. This keeps the cultivation at a minimum and avoids damaging the soil structure.

To maintain the soils fertility:

  • Cover the soil with a green manure. This will protect the surface living organisms and the soil structure from damage by dry conditions, heavy rain or strong winds.
  • Apply manure or plant wastes. Apply one wheelbarrow full of well-rotted manure or two of compost per 10 m sq of ground per year.
  • Loosen the subsoil which will break up compaction
  • Use a rotation system for annual plants.
  • Cultivating the soil shouldn’t be carried out when the soil is too wet or too dry. Don’t mix the subsoil with topsoil. Cultivating the soil should be kept at a minimum to avoid damaging the soil structure.

Composting Bins

How do I start composting?  To get started, the first thing you will need to do is buy a home composting bin.

Northumberland County Council are working with getcomposting.com to offer residents a range of home compost bins, wormeries and accessories at special offer prices.  Order composting equipment online here.