Allotment holders prepare to fight power company

Treasured allotments could be under threat with plans to expand a substation.


Coun Bally Singh with allotment holders

Electricity distributor Western Power said it needs to meet a increased demand by building more substations in Abercorn Road near Hearsall Common.

But it means a number of allotments could be concreted over by the firm to make way.

Bosses said demand for electricity through the substation had rocketed ten per cent since 1999 and they needed to upgrade the network.

The plans include building two transformers and making room for a further two when needed. A permanent access road through the common - instead of next to All Souls Primary School as it is currently - is also being considered.

It is not yet clear when the plans will be submitted to the council.

Plot holders have started a petition - signed by over 500 people - against the expansion. They are supported by ward councillor Bally Singh.

Michelle Johnson, 50, who is spearheading the campaign, said: "I'll do whatever it takes to stop the expansion from happening.

"I'm even prepared to camp out on the allotments, that's how much this means to me.

"I was born and bred in the area and have used the common for 40 years. I've taken my son there, now he's taking his son there.

"They say they own the land but the allotments have been here years. It's upsetting a lot of people."

A company spokesman said the substation provided power to 33,000 homes and businesses, and the expansion was needed to guarantee a reliable service.

"We understand the strength of feeling as far as some allotment holders are concerned, which is why we have explored a range of options in consultation with Coventry City Council and consulted with the Allotment Association, All Souls Catholic Primary School representatives and local councillors.

"We remain committed to continuing this dialogue in the weeks ahead in the hope a satisfactory conclusion can be reached for all concerned."

THEY'RE like a mini nature reserve in the heart of a city - that's how one allotment holder described the small plots of land next to Hearsall Common.

John Swan, who has held a plot since December 2008, said people who had plot were a little community.

"The allotments have been on the site for decades and are a haven for wildlife," he told us.

"They're a place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

"Its like a little community and some plot holders have had them for several years.

"A lot of time and effort has been spent on them and it would be heartbreaking to see all this hardwork go to waste."

The 71-year-old, who took on a plot at the same time as his daughter, added: "The allotment I have is a wonderful place for my grandchildren to play within and gain an understanding of the wildlife. I have mature fruit trees which provide shelter and food for birds and insects."