Join us

How long might you have to wait? This is difficult to predict. We do have a regular turnover of plots as members’ job, family or health situation change, but plots come in a range of sizes and the one that comes free may not be the size you are looking for. What we can say is that it is more likely to be months than years!

All prospective plot holders are advised that keeping an allotment takes a regular commitment of time and energy. Most members visit their plot weekly. We all have busy times, dramas and holidays but during the growing season a couple of weeks’ absence will result in a weedy plot that will be a nuisance to your neighbours. The Committee audits all plots twice a year to ensure problems are identified and dealt with quickly and fairly. Persistent failure to use or maintain a plot in accordance with the rules can put membership at risk. Whilst the amount of time needed to manage a plot varies according to size, all need to be regularly tended and it is important to be realistic about how much time you can dedicate when you think about applying for a plot.

Membership goes from the end of one March to the next. You can join anytime during the year but we do not do part-year payments.

Plots range in size from small beds on communal plots (the smallest being c. 21’ x 6’) to large 12 pole plots. Depending on size, the plot fee varies from about £40 to £90 a year plus 50p per member for membership of Oxford’s allotment umbrella group, the ODFAA. Note that plot fees are set to increase by 20% next year. Only signed-up members can have a key and there is a one-off, refundable £25 key deposit. You are allowed to share your key with family/friends (‘co-workers’). We expect all members to do 2 hours per year community work on the site via our monthly Sunday morning working parties (or pay £20 annually in lieu). We manage two Communal Orchards for the benefit of our members and this community work is necessary for its maintenance as well as work around the site. We could not manage the site without this.