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.
Council understood to be preparing to take ownership of Warwick Mill
Town of Culture year brings in at least £5.5m for Rochdale
Veterans to run new café in restored Rochdale manor house
Five Lamborghinis and Mercedes seized after motorway driving reports
Four more teenagers arrested after 13-year-old boy stabbed in Rochdale
Two men arrested on suspicion of murder after man dies following balcony fall in Salford
Rochdale Youth Council leader Daniel Murphy announces immediate resignation
Wardle man lends his voice to poetry trail about recovery
East Lancashire Railway launches Christmas card competition for children
Police appeal for witnesses following death of man in Bury
Drug dealer jailed after being shot by police during Whitefield arrest
Edgar Wood Academy celebrates first GCSE results
Comments
Add a comment