Roots Allotments: Green Belt Battleground

Roots, a company offering private allotment rentals on leased farmland, has rapidly expanded since its 2021 founding, attracting nearly 5,000 customers and securing significant investment. Frustrated by decades-long council allotment waiting lists, the founders aimed to provide an alternative. Customers pay monthly fees for plots, valuing the mental health and wellbeing benefits of being outdoors.

However, Roots faces widespread opposition, with protests and campaigns highlighting concerns about their aggressive expansion strategy. Critics accuse the company of developing land before obtaining planning permission and negatively impacting the environment. Incidents of sabotage and local resistance have occurred at various sites across England.

The company defends its model, asserting that its sites are agricultural and do not require planning permission on greenbelt land, a claim disputed by opponents. Despite these challenges, Roots continues its expansion, with plans for numerous new sites and international ventures, aiming for substantial growth by 2033.

Roots sites are now available, contrasting with the decline in public allotment land since the 1950s. While not yet profitable, the company has seen significant asset growth. The venture capital-backed model has drawn comparisons to a "WeWork for allotments," raising questions about commercializing a traditional public good.

Further issues have arisen, including planning permission battles and the cutoff of water supply due to unauthorized connections. Despite ongoing controversies, Roots remains committed to expanding its services, citing the high demand for allotment spaces.