Allotment holders could air their views at a new regular forum suggested by St Albans district council (SADC).

The Allotments Forum would meet once or twice a year to discuss the management of plots around the area.

SADC’s Allotments Task and Finish Group floated the idea, along with other improvement initiatives including new site rules and the allocation of an annual £1,000 maintenance fund.

This is because current budgets were said to be insufficient to restore neglected plots.

The group’s findings were reported to a meeting of the Community, Environment and Sport Scrutiny Committee on Thursday July 12.

These ideas will now be considered for approval by either SADC cabinet or the City Neighbourhoods Committee (CNC).

Cllr Anthony Rowlands, the committee’s chair, said: “In particular, we want to see more interaction between the plot holders and the council so we can work in close partnership to enhance the sites.

“The Allotments Forum is an excellent idea to ensure there is a regular exchange of views.

“The new rules will also ensure allotment holders will have a clear idea as to their rights and responsibilities.

“I very much hope the cabinet and the CNC will accept all the recommendations that have been made, so we can move forward.”

There are more than 30 allotment sites in the district, with 29 owned by parish councils and two owned by the Highfield Park Trust.

Allotment plots in different locations vary in size, but most are around 125 to 250 square metres, costing £47.20.