Disused allotments in the west of Hounslow could be transformed as part of an 'urban farming' project.
Eco-activist Alex Morrell wants to commandeer half the overgrown Faggs Road Allotments site in Feltham, where just two out of 80 plots are currently used, and develop it as a not-for-profit 'social enterprise'.
He plans to offer the homeless, people with learning disabilities and ex-offenders vital training opportunities at the site, with all produce being sold locally to help fund the programme.
Should the scheme prove successful, he intends to expand it to other allotments and undeveloped eyesores across Hounslow.
The 29-year-old climate change analyst, who lives in Teddington, believes this is the prefect time to launch such a project.
"We're in the middle of a deep recession and this is a great opportunity for people to gain skills while opening up brownfield sites for use by the local community," he said.
"It's a shame you've got huge waiting lists for allotments in the east of the borough when there are so many empty plots in the west. Hopefully, this will help redress that balance."
Alex, who has an allotment plot near his home, has already been in touch with a number of local organisations which he says are keen to get involved, including the Refugee Council, Hounslow Learning & Skills Council, homeless charity Feed the Hungry Heart and Downview Prison.
He wants to offer them the chance to gain qualifications including NVQs and BTECs through a combination of physical and practical work.
Alex is already in talks with contractors Continental Landscapes about taking over part of Faggs Road Allotments and has a number of other sites in mind, should the scheme be a success.
They include Heston Fairground, the former Heston Scout Hut, Inwood Road Allotments and the site behind Worton Hall, in Isleworth, among others.
He is keen to hear from anyone prepared to give up a few hours a week to help get the scheme off the ground, especially those with experience of social care, horticulture or finance.
If you are interested in getting involved, call Alex on 020 8943 0199 or email: amorrell@dundee.ac.uk
