Interesting report on allotments:
The English allotment lottery | News | guardian.co.uk

some of the highlights

-the average cost of allotments has gone up by 21% over three years

-In 2011 only Bolsover still charges 1p/sqm, although South Lakeland was the only council to reduce rents (50p/sqm) it remains one of the most expensive councils in the country, with Runnymede the most expensive at 55p/sqm

-on average there's one person waiting for each plot in England

-changes in terms of the agreement are being planned by 32 Councils and considered by 12 more, eg to avoid compensation on termination of tenancy, Tameside (Greater Manchester) now stipulates no "(a) standard or other fruit trees permanently set out; (b) fruit bushes (c) strawberry plants; (d) asparagus, rhubarb, and other vegetable crops which continue productive for two or more years." ... which really does cut down on the usefulness of having an allotment.