Plot holders have been pushing to take control of The Mile and met with councillors to discuss their proposals.

The site, which has just under 140 plots, is owned and managed by the council which charges an annual rent – adding up to £3,000.

However, the council has expressed an interest in allowing an association to switch control and then only ask for an annual "peppercorn" rent – a minimal fee.

Councillor Graham Perry said: "I think we should allow them to set it up and to give it a chance to work, then pull away and charge the peppercorn rent.

"I think we should give them the encouragement but it would be up to them to manage it on their own."

Mayor Jeff Shepherd said that the allotment holders seemed "200 per cent" committed to making the system independent of the council, but some councillors expressed concern about withdrawing completely.

It was felt that the council should have a say in the set-up of the association, with an agreement that if interest dwindled or legal issues arose, the council could re-take control, but only as a last resort.

Site holder Brian Cooper, who is leading the calls for a breakaway, says the move would only benefit the allotments with all generated money staying within the site.

He says there are hopes that they can make significant improvements, including a disabled toilet on site and improvements to the pathways between plots.

Mr Cooper said: "The council do it because they have to, we're doing it because we want to do it.

"We want a complete takeover of everything and put all the money back into the allotments. We just want to make it a better place.

"The council seem to be for it and have been very helpful."

The group is now calling on all allotment holders in Pocklington to attend a meeting in January in which they will hold a ballot to decide on the future of the site.

It will take place at the old courthouse on George Street on 15 January at 7.30pm.