Celebrating National Allotments Week: Discover Friends of Constable Street Field

By Jo Featherstone, Project Officer (Growing Green and Blue Health)

As we celebrate National Allotments Week, we’re shining a spotlight on one of our city’s genuine community treasures: the Constable Community Allotment, lovingly run by Friends of Constable Street Field.

A Green Oasis on Hessle Road

Nestled just off Hessle Road, Constable Community Allotment was established in 2015 and today covers half an acre of thriving green space. Restored using permaculture principles, this organic haven is a fantastic example of environmental sustainability in action. The site boasts year-round growing thanks to a spacious poly tunnel, abundant outdoor beds, a unique roundhouse crowned with a living sedum roof, a traditional brick and cob pizza oven, and a wheelchair-accessible compost toilet – making the space welcoming for everyone.

A Community Coming Together

In early August, I had the pleasure of visiting the allotment, where I met Lausanne Tranter – whose passion and determination were instrumental to the site’s development – along with a couple of dedicated regular volunteers. Together, they shared stories of how the allotment has been a source of personal wellbeing, blending hands-on growing with the joys of social connection and the calming presence of nature.

Lausanne, a qualified permaculture trainer, played a vital role in securing the land and transforming it into a productive, welcoming space. Her vision was clear: grow chemical-free food in harmony with nature, for the benefit of local people.

Open to All – For Growing, Sharing, and Wellbeing

Working collaboratively with residents, volunteers, and community groups, the Constable Street Field allotment welcomes everyone. Whether you’re keen to get involved in growing fruit and vegetables, enjoy the peacefulness of nature, or join one of the community’s friendly events or workshops, there’s a place here for you. All produce is shared with local residents on a ‘pay what you feel’ basis – giving everyone the opportunity to experience the unbeatable taste of home-grown vegetables.

Join the Community or Just Come for a Cuppa

Lausanne and the team are always keen to welcome more volunteers. The allotment is a haven for frogs, bees, crickets, and all sorts of wildlife. With birdsong in the air and friendly faces to greet you, it’s an ideal retreat from the bustle of city life. The garden is open every Wednesday and Friday, from 10.30am-1.30pm. Speaking from experience, you can be sure of a warm welcome, a cup of tea, and plenty of friendly conversation!

As National Allotments Week reminds us, allotments are about much more than growing food – they’re about building healthier, happier, more connected communities. Why not pop along to Constable Community Allotment and see the magic for yourself?