Under the leadership of Fenne Horne, our Assistant Property Manager for the development, we’ve put in place a management framework. This includes:
- Defining responsibilities for plot holders.
- Introducing a fair three-step process to address overgrown plots.
- Strengthening financial management, ensuring funds are used responsibly.
- Improving the waiting list system, so plots are allocated fairly.
- Collaborating with Whiting Landscapes, who help maintain communal areas and provide support to plot holders.
Resident-Led Partnership
Fenne has worked extremely closely with the resident-led allotment committee, staying in weekly contact and ensuring that residents’ voices are at the centre of decision-making. Their feedback has been vital in shaping improvements, particularly around fair standards for plot maintenance.
Visible Improvements
Today, all 40 plots are now assigned to a plot holder and are being actively cultivated!
Michael from the Houlton Allotment Society praised the difference Fenne has made:
“Fenne’s efforts have been pivotal in improving allotment occupancy and she has always listened to concerns and ideas and acted on them promptly. We really appreciate her plot-holder-first approach, and we have loved working with her!”
Looking Ahead
Fenne and the team are now focused on maintaining this momentum, ensuring plots remain fully occupied, supporting high standards, and continuing to embed the allotments into the heart of the Houlton community.
A local nursery has already taken on a plot, giving children hands-on experience with planting and growing, while learning about sustainability and community.
Initiatives like this are a sign of how the allotments will continue to grow as a cornerstone of Houlton life.
