All of Sutton’s allotment plots have been snapped up since last summer because of the recession, according to the council.
In August 2008, Sutton Council had almost 150 plots up for grabs but with more residents looking to trim their grocery bills, demand for allotments is at record levels.
It costs just £29.75 to hire a standard 125 sq m (410 sq ft) plot for 12 months, which can bear enough produce to supply a small family for a year.
Councillor Sean Brennan, leader of Sutton Council, said: “It appears that Sutton residents are reaching for their spades and digging their way through the recession.
“Our allotments have never been so popular and at less than £30 a year for a plot, it’s hardly surprising that more people are growing their own.
“As well as the cost savings, owning your own allotment gives you a year-round supply of healthy fruit and veg, is good exercise and also gives you a great place to relax, unwind and socialise.
“While all our sites are full, get your name on the waiting list now for a chance of having your own plot next summer.”
Sutton has about 2,300 plots and on average new applicants are waiting more than a year for a patch to become available.
To find out more about allotments in Sutton, call 020 8770 5070 or visit sutton.gov.uk.
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