Sevenoaks Town Council funds new solar panels and gazebo at Quakers Hall Lane Allotments

Published: 02 December 2025

Sevenoaks Town Council has approved funding for two projects to enhance sustainability and community facilities at its Quakers Hall Lane Allotments.

Following a proposal from Sevenoaks Allotment Holders’ Association (SAHA), Sevenoaks Town Council will fund the installation of solar panels and the addition of a new wooden gazebo to provide shelter at the allotments on Quakers Hall Lane.

These projects support Sevenoaks Town Council’s Green Community Investment Plan, and its continued commitment to environmentally responsible projects that benefit the local area.

SAHA is a volunteer-run, non-profit group that represents plot holders, runs the Trading Centre at Quakers Hall Lane, and builds community through advice, events, and shared resources for local growers.

To improve the Town Council’s allotment site’s energy efficiency, SAHA proposed installing a small-scale solar photovoltaic system with battery storage. The aim is to provide a sustainable and self-sufficient energy solution to support community gardening activities. It will eliminate the need for a diesel generator and provide clean power for events and site operations.

SAHA reported that the proposed system will generate approximately 4,582 kWh per year, sufficient to power lighting, small appliances, and community events serving over 200 plot holders.

The solar panels will be mounted on the roof of a block of sheds. The roof already includes a rainwater harvesting system, including guttering and a water butt, reducing reliance on mains water.

Sevenoaks Town Council will provide funding of £10,234 + VAT for the solar panels from its Allotment Earmarked Reserve.

The Town Council is also funding 50% of the cost of a new gazebo at Quakers Hall Lane Allotments, with SAHA funding the other 50%. In total, the new wooden gazebo will cost £2,171. It will be used to provide shelter for allotment holders and visitors.

The new timber gazebo will be installed in Bill’s Orchard, a shared communal space adjacent to the Trading Centre.

SAHA host a number of social events at Quakers Hall Lane Allotments including monthly “Mug and Muffin” gatherings, school workshops, and informal meetups. The structure will serve as a hub for social gatherings, educational workshops, and informal rest, enhancing the site’s inclusivity, resilience, and environmental stewardship.

Councillor Dr Merilyn Canet, Chair of the Community Assets (Open Spaces) Committee said, “Sevenoaks Town Council is working with Sevenoaks Allotment Holders’ Association to sustainably improve the site and facilities for members. Solar power for the Trading Centre and a gazebo to take a rest and share gardening ideas will be welcome additions to the allotment site.”

For more information about Sevenoaks Town Council’s allotments and how to rent a plot, visit our Allotments webpage. For more information about SAHA, visit www.sevenoaksallotments.com.