Our bubble burst

Yes planning permission is required, the advice not to do anything untill such permission has been granted is sound. Planning permission may not be granted. I would however have thought thatv 9 months for matter to be resolved is a little over the top, three to four months sounds more reasonable following the submission of the planning application. You may be surprised at the level of objection as I know from experience. The very best of luck.

The 4 acre field was originaly farm land but has not been cultivated or grazed for about 10 years. The farm access road (a public road) runs along 1 side and the main road along another. Parking would appear to be the major problem although we feel that this can be easily addressed.

Sounds well frustrating, especially since you'd managed to get your spade in the ground.

It may be worth talking to the local planning dept to see what the due process might be in this instance. I don't know about Planning Law in much detail, but a change of use may be required from agricultural to recreational use, and that bit may take time. Planning departments tend to work at their own speed. Notwithstanding, if the situation ends up in a Planning Committee hearing (and you'll have to gently enquire of the Landowner whether he could keep you informed) it might be possible that the intended users of the site could address the Committee and reassure that provision of an amenity such as allotments is beneficial socially, economically and ecologically.

Don't forget to use the S-word either!

If the existing status of the land is agricultural then you would not require planning permission for alloments, a quick call to the local council would confirm this.  You would have to get planning for any buildings that you put up, but the council could not refuse you permission provided the buildings are for agricultural purposes ie pig house, chicken house tractor shed - not stables as they come under equestrian use.  Best advice:- sort out the parking issue and crack on.