Open data pilot targets allotment headache
A pilot project to identify and map available sites suitable for growing food in Manchester is underway as part of the DataGM movement.
DataGM is a publicly funded programme of initiatives aimed at releasing and compiling public information that software developers can use to make new apps for mobile devices with public services in mind. DataGM is a partnership of various councils and public bodies and is coordinated by Trafford Council.
The organisers behind the Everyday Growing Cultures project are working with DataGM partners and using Freedom of Information Act requests to obtain lists of allotments, along with waiting times and rent details to create a simple coherent searchable set of data.
They are also organising walking tours of sites including possible future grow-your-own sites in Manchester and Sheffield, the two focus areas for the pilot project.
A hackday, when software developers will work together to come up with ideas for how best to present the data, is planned as part of the pilot.
An update on DataGM and Everyday Growing Cultures will be held on Tuesday 28 May from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at MadLab, 36-40 Edge Street, Manchester M4 1HN.
What a load of absolute nonsense! Why not simply get the officers at the council who are in charge of allotments to pull their (green) fingers pout and do their job properly.
By P Thrower