Councillor Fionuala Foley says that only 40 per cent of the council's allotments are in use (Adver January 14), and many people fear that property developers have their eyes on these important green spaces for housing.

I have long suspected that the council has a hidden agenda with allotments to run down the service so that they can sell off the land.

The low occupancy rates are because when new allotment holders take over a plot they face a labour of Hercules to clear the weeds. What is more, this is a never ending battle as the council does not clear the weeds from surrounding vacant plots, so the weeds there go to seed and spread to the cultivated land.

New allotment holders also find they need to lay out hundreds of pounds for a shed and fencing. It is interesting that where occupancy rates are higher, such as the Pipers Lane allotments, then keeping down the weeds is less of a problem and people are less likely to give up.

Rats and rabbits are also a plague for many allotment holders, and the council could do more to control these vermin. Allotment holders don't expect something for nothing, they do pay for their plots.

Allotments provide an important facility that allows exercise and encourages healthy eating.

However, people, especially families with children and busy lives do need help. The council should provide a weed clearance service when people take over a new allotment, and provide a shed and fence. They should also take care of maintaining vacant lots. In some towns, where the council does provide these services allotment gardening has become popular again, especially as a cheap source of organic vegetables and fruit for young families. We need these green spaces because they are an important part of what makes Swindon a pleasant place to live.

Andy Newman

Avenue Road