'Alleyways in Bloom' returns to brighten up borough’s back streets

Friday, 27 June 2025 16:37

By David Murphy

Residents across Rochdale are being encouraged to dig deep and get creative as the 'Alleyways in Bloom' competition returns for its 18th year.

Inspired by Dame Gracie Fields' classic song 'Pride of Our Alley', the annual competition celebrates the transformation of gated alleyways into vibrant community spaces.

Organised by Rochdale Borough Council, the initiative is part of a wider burglary reduction scheme. It aims to show how alleyways secured with steel anti-burglary gates can be turned into safe, shared spaces through neighbourly cooperation and clever planting.

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and cooperation, said: “We’re back with the 18th Alleyways in Bloom competition, and we cannot wait to see the entries this year. It always brings a smile to my face to see how these often overlooked spaces have been turned into something special.”

More than 600 alleygating schemes have been installed across the borough, and residents who live in gated streets are encouraged to collaborate with neighbours to spruce up their shared alleys. In the past, unused backstreets have been transformed with flowerbeds, vegetable planters, outdoor seating, and artwork, creating peaceful and welcoming spaces.

The top entry this year will receive a £50 garden centre voucher, while the runner-up will take home a £25 voucher.

To enter, residents must contact the council’s burglary reduction officer on 01706 924687 by Friday 4 July 2025. Judging will take place across July and August.

The council also confirmed funding remains available for new alleygating installations, designed to tackle crime, fly-tipping, and antisocial behaviour. Households interested in applying for gates can find more information at rochdale.gov.uk/alleygating.