Re-elect Gordon Marsden

Labour Party candidate for Blackpool South

Gordon Welcomes 'Grow Your Own' Boost

Gordon has welcomed the Government announcement today that means people in Blackpool will have more opportunities to grow their own fruit and vegetables locally, in spaces around the town which are currently not being fully utilised.

To ensure local people can take advantage of this, a national community land bank will be set up to connect land-holders with community groups who want to establish "grown your own" schemes, as well as to provide advise to those involved. Local Authorities will also get guidance on how to best reduce allotment waiting lists and use land in the best way possible.

Both public and privately owned land in the area can be turned into vegetable and flower gardens, this could include unused land which is owned by councils, NHS and private developers. "Meanwhile leases" will be available to make sure local groups have access to areas whilst development decisions are taking place.

Commenting on the announcements Gordon said, "Last autumn I visited Cherry Tree Allotments and urged Blackpool Council to give new opportunities to the Blackpool Federation of Allotment Holders. This new initiative encourages groups to participate in Blackpool. Not only does this ensure people can grow their own high quality produce cheaply but I am sure we can all think of areas which are currently unused and with a bit of gardening could be brightened. I believe passionately that Blackpool’s green space needs expanding and utilising, not concreting over".  

John Denham, Secretary of State at the Department of Communities and Local Government to whom Gordon is ministerial aide said:

"There is a real keenness among people for healthy living, cheaper meals and locally sourced food. More and more people want to grow their own but their efforts can be held up by a shortage of suitable land.