The Future of Barnet’s Allotments Workshop Three

Agenda  Welcome and Introduction  Workshop programme  Feedback and Discussion  Next steps

Workshop  Purpose – To review the draft lease proposal that has been developed following Workshop Two and subsequent feedback.  Format – Group review and discussion ItemTime Overview Initial Group Feedback/Issues Break Draft Lease – Group review and discussion7.00 – 8.00 Overview and Next steps8.00 – 8.30

Overview (1) Lease Term – Updated position as of May 2011 Communities and Local Government have provided the following update on Devolved Management arrangements:  Local authorities lease land to allotment societies or co-operatives on long leases using their general power to dispose of land in section 123 or 127 of the Local Government Act This is fairly common practice that has been adopted by many local authorities. There have however been cases where local authorities have been in some doubt about leasing to allotment associations and devolved management arrangements.  The DCLG Secretary of State must consent to statutory allotment land being leased for other purposes and to disposals for a tenancy of more than 7 years for less than the 'best consideration that could reasonably be obtained'. As a consequence leases are usually renewed every 7 years, providing an opportunity for associations to demonstrate that they are still fit for purpose and to demonstrate successful management of the site. Source: Local Government Association,

Overview (2)  Workshop Two – Heads of Terms Discussion  Offer of service o Land registry title and letter to neighbouring residents o Site survey – Inventory, boundaries, condition survey, trees o Health & Safety works to be identified and rectified.  Draft documentation for consideration o Lease o Tenancy Agreement o Minimum criteria for society constitution o Allotment Garden Rules o Annual return (TBA)

Overview (3) oThe proposed lease document has been developed using an existing lease. Amendments reflect an increase in responsibilities and obligations. oIncrease in obligations and responsibilities come with associated restrictions. These need to be balanced and fit for purpose. oIncorporated the discussions, the co-ordinated feedback via Richard King. oLease document may have become too detailed, general catch all phraseology may be more appropriate in places. oInitial feedback & issues to consider

Feedback & Discussion ItemTime Overview Initial Group Feedback/Issues Break Draft Lease – Group review and discussion Overview and Next steps

Next steps  Further review and amendment of Lease and documents.  Further session to finalise Lease?  Site surveys