Allotment holders ‘shocked and saddened’ by planned 600% rent rise in Weymouth

Allotment holders in Weymouth say they are “shocked and saddened” after being told their rent will increase by almost 600 per cent over the next four years.

Faircross Allotments, a self-managed site on Everest Road that is leased from Weymouth Town Council, currently costs the association about £365 a year — roughly £1 a day.

After a recent rent review, the council has approved a phased rise that will see the annual charge climb to £2,460 by the fourth year, representing an overall increase of 574 per cent.

Under the plan, the rent would rise by 237 per cent in the first year, followed by a further 30 per cent in the second year, 25 per cent in the third year, and an additional 20 per cent in the fourth year.

The Faircross Allotment Association, which represents more than 60 plot holders, argues that the decision does not take into account the way the site operates. The allotments are entirely run by members, who handle all maintenance, management, and running costs themselves without financial help from the council.

A spokesperson for the association said members feel a responsibility to stand up for plot holders and to protect their interests in light of the proposed increases.