Current projects
March 2026
We are currently constructing raised beds as part of our new Community Plot initiative, which will be open later in the spring for the use of local residents. Rather than take responsibility for a whole plot, users will be able to come along for a couple of hours at the weekend, help with planting and growing, and share in the harvest. Contact us to find out more.
September 2025
We have moved on to the next stage of our Community Asset Transfer application and are currently looking at ways of incorporating the Allotment Association, as we have now been informed that this is a requirement of CCBC despite the fact we already have a constitution that was approved by the Council at the point when the allotment site became self-managed. It's not easy to find a model of incorporation that works for an Allotment Association, but we are receiving support from the Gwent Assocation of Voluntary Organisations and CWMPAS in finding one that will fit our needs and structure and is acceptable to CCBC.
July 2025
The St Mary Street Allotment Association has applied to CCBC for a Community Asset Transfer of the allotment site, and after submission of an Expression of Interest form we are awaiting a decision on whether we may progress to the next stage. We are currently unable to apply for most grant funding as we hold the site on an annually renewing lease from CCBC; most funders require at least 5-10 years remaining on the lease before they will consider applications. A CAT would release us from this restriction and enable us to move forward with plans to improve the site, and to provide for individuals and groups that we can't currently accommodate.
October 2024
We are very grateful for a grant of £300 received from Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen Community Council towards the purchase of a weatherproof notice board for the site. This will aid us in sharing information with members and passers-by, and help to foster a sense of community on the site.
November 2023
As a first step to making our site more accessible to those with disabilities and mobility issues, we have drawn up plans to improve the entrance to the site and lay surfaced paths suitable for wheelchair use between the new starter plots and the area set aside for accessible raised beds. An application for grant funding for this project will be submitted early in 2024.
October 2023
We are extremely grateful for a grant of £300 received from the Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen Community Council toward the purchase and installation of IBC containers to collect rainwater from the roof of the communal shed. The site is not connected to mains water, and this increase in rainwater harvesting capacity will help to combat the effects of climate change on the site.