ALLOTMENT holders have blasted Halton Council for putting up their rents by 160 per cent.

They fought plans to increase them by 300 per cent but say they still can’t afford bills which rise from £31 to £80 next year.

It is one of a range of open space charges increased by the executive board on Thursday, following Government cutbacks of £15 million.

Cemetery charges and the hire of sports facilities are also rising.

Justine Teeling, aged 41, of Arkenstone Close, Widnes, formed Halton Allotment Group on Facebook to fight the increases. .

She said: “The council keeps saying it’s only £1.54 a week but it’s a huge increase in comparison with other leisure facilities, especially bowling greens which is remaining free.

“They haven’t given us a chance to discuss issues in terms of some sites becoming self-managing or other ways to save money.”

She vowed to seek legal advice to contest the charges.

Frank Wilco, secretary of Haddocks Wood Allotment Assocation, said: “We’ve heard people saying they will have to give up their plots because they can’t afford them.

“We have a lot of pensioners who enjoy coming down here, growing fruit and veg a lot cheaper than they can buy in the shops.”

Clr Tom McInerney, board member for open spaces, said: “We have always subsidised allotment charges but now, because of Government cutbacks, we have to cover our costs.

“A cut in our grant is forcing us to do things we would never want to do to the most vulnerable people.”

He said the £1.54 weekly fee includes water rates and the provision of skips and keys, for which many councils make additional charges.

Tenants can pay their rents in two instalments or through direct debit.