A New Beginning
In 2002 a meeting was held between the committee, local authority and a local councillor to discuss how to progress development of the site to attract new members. A strategy was created and fundraising commenced.
Shortly afterwards Ashurst Horticultural Society changed it's name to Skelmersdale Horticultural Society. Successful grants were won from The Co-operative Bank, New Opportunity Fund (National Lottery), Lancashire Small Sites. Lancashire County Council, West Lancs District Council, Royal Society for Nature Conservation, Allotments Regeneration Initiative, Green Partnership Award.
The monies raised helped to clear the land of overgrowth, shrubs and trees. The land was then ploughed, rotavated and individual plots remeasured; the site now has 25 plots not 26 as previously due to space being taken for storage facilities. The site was made secure with Paladin and Palisade 2.4 metre high fencing. A second security container to house tools was sourced and a tool loan scheme set up for new members.
This totally rejuvinated the site and within two years all plots are taken and a healthy waiting list created.
The site is regularly patrolled by its members, Ashurst Residents Association and Lancashire Constabulary.