MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 4 OCTOBER 2008
Present: Tom Cashman, Katie Fergusion, Monica and John Mckinlay, Johnny Gailey, Norma and June Carylon, Greg , Alan Dewar from Leith Permaculture.
Previous Minutes were agreed. It was also agreed that, to cut down admin, Minutes would simply be shown on the board, copies available on request.
Alan Dewar of Leith Permaculture had kindly come along to let us know the plans for their two plots. He indicated that the idea was to have the plots as a social space that would be the focus of some courses run through ACE. The general plan had been shown on the notice board and included plans for a Round House, pond and some raised beds. Plan was flexible and could incorporate ideas from allotment holders, for example, site orchard or some sort of social space. Leith group had not progressed their grant application yet. Alan felt that other than the new structures, in general the look of the two plots would be much as it is just now. Alan was thanked for coming along to our meeting – and giving a hand with the track clearing! He will come along to our next meeting, meantime if any plot holders have any thoughts or ideas on this issue please let us know.
Ian Woolard had visited the site on 18 September and with John Mckinlay had looked around all plots. Items of interest included ;-issue of letters offering half plots to plot holders who were struggling with the upkeep of a full plot, sympathetic consideration was given due to the exceptionally wet August; new keys for 2010; path spraying; drainage for the two very bottom plots; tree work around the fence perimeter; free compost bins (let me know if you want one) ; third bucket to be returned (this has now been done).
There is a list for anyone wanting manure. Norma Carylon has contacted Riding for the Disabled and they will supply and deliver 100 bags for 60pounds. Greg is pursuing another supplier (Police Horse Stables)
Anyone interested add their name and number to the list on the board.
Johnny Gailey has been investigating grant opportunities and said that now we have a properly constituted Committee we should qualify for a 50 pound grant per plot for water buts from the Council, these would be available in February. Also B&Q have grants of 500 pounds per site for the supply of equipment. John Mckinlay is to contact Brian Sandell at Midmar Allotments for further grant possibilities.
The Autumn Project was well supported considering the weather and an excellent start was made. Anyone who feels the inclination can continue the good work by spending half an hour or so doing the bit at their own plot. Once the track is clear it only take a few minutes every so often to keep it that way without the need for sprays or weed killer.
A really big thank you was extended to the twelve people who helped on the day and all who have helped since.
Next Meeting is Saturday 1 November at 11 am at the Notice Board.
Remember any plot holder can come along and will be welcome.
There being no other business the meeting closed.