Before applying for your first plot, think carefully about your health, physical ability, and the time you can realistically commit. Allotment gardening can be physically demanding, with tasks such as digging, weeding, mowing, and general upkeep required throughout the year.
Plots often need significant work in the early stages, and during the growing season you may need to visit several times a week. Ongoing maintenance is essential to prevent overgrowth and keep the plot in good condition.
Making sure you have the time, energy, and motivation will help ensure your allotment experience is both enjoyable and successful.
Applying for an allotment
Applications for allotments must be submitted online. Once your application has been received, your name will be added to the waiting list for your selected site. Plots are allocated as they become available, and waiting times can vary depending on demand at each location.
To be eligible to apply for an allotment, you must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Be a resident of Bolton
- Know the name of the specific allotment site you wish to apply for
- Be registered on the waiting list for one site only
If you meet this criteria, you can apply for an allotment using the form below.
The allotment application form is currently under construction. Please check back soon.
Please make sure you notify us of any changes to your contact details while you are on the waiting list, as failure to do so may result in you losing your place.
Demand for allotments - waiting lists
Demand for allotments in Bolton is currently very high, with over 700 people on the waiting list. Waiting times vary depending on the site, as some locations are more popular than others. Plots rarely become available, so applicants should expect a potentially long wait. At times we may close the waiting lists on particular sites if the demand outways the availability or should the waiting list numbers increase to a high number.
Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to provide regular updates on waiting list positions. We will contact you directly if a suitable plot becomes available at your chosen site.
While waiting, you may wish to get involved in local community food-growing groups in Bolton. These provide a good opportunity to develop skills, meet others with similar interests, and gain experience before taking on your own allotment.
Next steps
When you reach the top of the waiting list, either we or the relevant Allotment Society will contact you using the details provided in your application. Please ensure your contact information is kept up to date, as failure to do so may result in losing your place on the list.
Once offered a plot to view, you will have 10 days to visit the site and confirm whether you wish to accept it. If we do not hear from you within this time, the offer may be withdrawn and passed to the next applicant.
We recommend visiting at the weekend when other plot holders are often on site, and strongly advise viewing the plot in person before signing a tenancy agreement. If no response is received, your name will be removed from the waiting list.