As part of the study, Wansbeck District Council looked at current management arrangements, leasing and pricing, security and budget provision.

It was recognised that allotments play a key part in bringing all sections of the community together and in the promotion of sustainability and healthy living.

The review team, consisting of nine councillors, circulated a questionnaire to allotment holders and this highlighted their concerns including water supplies, security fencing, general maintenance and waste removal.

The main issue being security of sites to reduce fly-tipping, vandalism, theft and trespass.

Under government legislation local authorities must provide sufficient plots to meet demand and there are currently 1,698 plots of various types within Wansbeck, some of which are disused.

In a report presented to committee members it was agreed that allotments should continue to be provided on the basis of demand.

It said that allotment holders on council managed sites should be consulted with a view to make these self-managed to reduce the cost for the council and an effort should be made to standardise policies on leasing arrangements and pricing.

The council will also work in partnership with sites to improve security and will continue to manage sites within the budget constraints and work closely with self-managed sites.