On Sunday 17th August, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, attended the Open Day hosted by the Dickens Heath Allotment Association.
The allotment, which has proudly served the local community since its establishment in February 1978, has grown into a vibrant and inclusive space, now home to over 80 members and 40 individual plots. It recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first allotment in the borough to be awarded the prestigious Green Flag Community Award, recognising excellence in community-led green spaces.
The visit comes as part of National Allotments Week, which runs between 11th and 17th August.
Following his visit, Dr Shastri-Hurst commented:
“Dickens Heath Allotment is a much loved green space where local residents can relax, enjoy the outdoors, and get closer to nature. I am really grateful to Michael, Delia, and Vinod for their warm welcome and for sharing the inspiring story behind this remarkable place.
The allotment is not just about growing fruit and vegetables – it brings people together, with coffee mornings, the sharing of produce, and a real sense of community. It is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when people care for and invest in something over many years.”
