TEN allotment plots have been officially handed over to Andover Town Council.

Housebuilder Taylor Wimpey created the plots through its Saxon Heights development at Augusta Park.

On Tuesday, February 23 representatives of Taylor Wimpey West London and Andover Town Council met at the allotments, situated in Cashmere Drive in Andover, to formally mark the transfer of ownership.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, which was led by Cllr David Coole, the mayor of Andover, and Taylor Wimpey's David Lockyer.

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They started building at Augusta Park back in 2011 as part of the regeneration of Andover, and the council have worked together to deliver the allotment plots.

The plots have a dedicated water supply and water butts, as well as allocated car parking and cycle routes for ease of access. 

Members of the public who have previously lodged their interest will be contacted by the council now that the handover has been completed.

Mr Lockyer said: “We’re delighted to have worked in collaboration with our partners at Andover Town Council on this project, which has provided ten high-quality allotment plots for residents at our Saxon Heights at Augusta Park development and the wider Andover community to use and enjoy for generations to come.

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“It’s an exciting time to be a keen grower in the area, and we’ve set the allotments up with a dedicated water supply and water butts aplenty to help the allotment owners hit the ground running and get their growing space to thrive as quickly as possible. We’re looking forward to seeing the allotments up and running under council supervision.”

Cllr Coole said: "It was a real privilege to formally accept the handover of the Saxon Heights Allotments Site from Taylor Wimpey and to declare the site officially open. This additional site will enable more Andover residents to enjoy the benefits of having an allotment plot. 

“Having an allotment not only enables people to grow their own fruit and vegetables, they also provide great social, mental and physical health benefits, as well as a greater understanding of the environment."