Our History

Allotments in Norbury Park began in 1940 to allow families and individuals to grow their own food to help the war effort. There were just two allotments before this date that were situated close to London Road. However, in 1940 the whole park was turned into allotments and remained so until 1945 when the park was taken back by the Council and the allotments were reduced to sites called Norbury Park, and North Surry Golf Course situated in Kensington Avenue. It was always planned to have housing built on Kensington Avenue, which eventually occurred.

The allotments were direct-let and plot holders paid their rent directly to Croydon Council. In 1966 some members decided to form an Association and managed the allotments themselves. It was decided in 1976 to become a Society and take on 21-year leases to fully manage the allotment side.