The price of allotments is set to fall as part of a new initiative to tackle poverty.

Currently there is a flat �70 fee for the green spaces, but a plan to introduce a sliding scale based on size was given the nod by Islington Council’s ruling executive last week.

It means the cheapest allotment will cost �23, or �12 with concessions.

Cllr Paul Smith, executive member for environment, said: “We are in tough times and the cost of living is going up for working people. We are looking to reduce the price of allotments on a sliding scale.

“This will enable people to grow their own food effectively and cheaply.”

Other initiatives passed by the executive as part of the environment and regeneration report included persuading restaurants to use less salt in their food and trying to get more children reading.