Allotment waiting lists are at record highs, with Google searches for 'allotments near me' surging in recent years, reaching an average of 99,870 monthly searches.

As councils across the UK struggle to meet demand, developments like Great Oaks near Yate are stepping up and integrating dedicated growing spaces into new communities.

Seven allotments are being created for the new homeowners at Great Oaks, a development by Gloucester-based Newland Homes. 

With the arrival of spring, attention is turning to gardening and the growing trend of homegrown produce. Since the pandemic, demand for allotments has continued to rise nationwide. Bristol has one of the longest waiting lists for allotments, making it the most difficult city to obtain a plot in the UK.

For new Great Oaks resident Mike Ogborne, the opportunity for his own allotment was too good to pass up.

Mike said: "Moving to Great Oaks has brought me back to my roots in an unexpected way. As a farmer's son, I grew up around agriculture, and the chance to tend my own allotment was something I couldn't resist."

Mike was one of the first to register to be considered for an allotment at Great Oaks and is looking forward to growing his own vegetables and reconnecting with the land.

He continued: "It's a place for me to enjoy away from home."

The allotments are one element of Newland Homes' aim to enable people to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, while also helping to support and develop a sense of community.

All the new homes at Great Oaks are zero carbon and use renewable energy in place of fossil fuels, with high levels of insulation, solar panels for electricity generation, air source heat pumps for hot water and heating, and an electric car charging point.

Over half of the new zero carbon homes at Great Oaks are now occupied or reserved.

Newland Homes is organising a special 'dusty boots' tour of the development tomorrow (March 22), where people can go behind the scenes to view the homes still under construction.

Marcus Evans, sales and marketing director for Newland Homes, said: "Allotments are more than just places to grow food; they offer a sense of belonging, encourage outdoor activity and contribute to food sustainability. We're thrilled that our new residents have this opportunity."

The new homes achieve an EPC 'A' rating for both energy efficiency and environmental impact, making them the absolute pinnacle of sustainable development, surpassing the UK's current building regulations. Some of the homes at Great Oaks achieve scores above the top possible rating.

Prices start from £390,000 for a three-bedroom, semi-detached home. Prospective buyers interested in securing a home and the chance to cultivate their own allotment can book an appointment on 01454 537993. Appointments are available daily.

For further information and to view the homes online, visit: www.newlandhomes.co.uk/enginecommon  or follow Newland Homes on socials @newlandhomes