Sandleheath has at its centre on the lower part of the Common, an area dedicated to village allotments.  There are 21 full units in all, though these are sometimes split into two.  Persons entitled to rent these, must reside within 5 miles of Fordingbridge Town Hall.  The reason for this, is that when the allotments were originally set up, Sandleheath was then part of Fordingbridge.  The allotments, known as "Allotments For The Labouring Poor", were comprised in an enclosure ward dated the 17^th of May 1865, made in the pursuance of the general Enclosure Acts and is a registered charity.  This is administered together with the Quadrant Alms Houses in Fordingbridge, by five Trustees and a Clerk.

Nowadays, to conform to charitable intentions, part of the yearly income after expenses is given to help a person in need, or to a worthy local cause within the old Fordingbridge area.  All plots are usually taken mostly by people living in Sandleheath village and at most times there is a small waiting list.  No sheds or other building structures are allowed.  Tenants are responsible for keeping their plots tidy, their own paths cut and hedges trimmed on the inside.  The Trustees being responsible for the boundary hedges outside.  Vandalism as in many other allotments is almost unheard of.  Only one minor incident in the last 18 years has ever been recorded.  One of the reasons for this good record, could be that many of the tenants live alongside the allotments and of course, there are no sheds or outbuildings.  It is generally agreed that these allotments help to provide a good community base in Sandleheath itself.

So, if you would like to know more (including the current pricing) or wish to add your name to the waiting list, then please contact Mrs Helen Tague, who is the Clerk to the Trustees, on 01425 655462 or email her at tague142@btinternet.com  Alternatively, you can contact Ray Tovey, who is the new Trustees Allotment Representative on 07887 942666.