Richmond Council has approved an increase in allotment rents for residents living outside the borough, effective from 1 October 2026. The decision, impacting non-resident plot holders, was made during a meeting of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, where councillors reviewed fees and charges for leisure services.
The move aims to address financial considerations, as detailed in the Fees and Charges Review 2026/27 for Leisure Services report. The report outlined proposed changes to fees and charges for various services, including allotments, register office, recreational and sports facilities, trees, sports and fitness, arts and culture, cemeteries and libraries.
Currently, the allotment rent for residents outside the borough is £51.20. The approved 10% increase will bring the rent to £56.30 from 1 October 2026.
Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, chair of the committee, presided over the meeting where the decision was reached. The report stated that the previous concessionary rate has been expanded to include those eligible under the Fairer Access category as well as those at least 60 years of age on 1 October 2026.
The Fair Access Pricing Policy, as outlined in the report, replaces previously applied concessionary charges and is applicable for recipients of means-tested benefits (Housing Benefit, Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Working Tax Credit, Disability Allowance, Carers Allowance, Universal Credit and Pension Credit), Sanctuary Seekers, people in emergency accommodation and care leavers.