Protected alleyway scoops top prize again

The competition, run by Rochdale Borough Council, asks residents to share their love of gardening by creating beautiful spaces in alleyways protected by lockable alley gates.

Richard Simpson, with neighbours in Shaftesbury Avenue in Smithy Bridge, secured the first prize of a £50 Bowlee Garden Nursery voucher. The alleyway features a beautiful tranquil space brimming with colour – complete with seating to enjoy a drink and a welcoming archway that draws people into a little oasis.

Richard said:

“We’re so pleased that our alleyway has impressed judges again and retained our winning streak thanks to everyone in Shaftesbury Avenue playing their part.

“Although winning competitions like this is flattering, our protected alleyway means so much more to us and we have all worked together over the years since the gates were installed in 2017 to create a safe and welcoming space that myself and neighbours can enjoy, which will hopefully remain for future residents too.”

Winner of the runner-up prize was this entry from Castleton.

Over in Castleton, Barry Flynn joined with neighbours in Smalley Street to enter the competition for the 2nd time, securing the runner-up prize of a £25 Bowlee Garden Nursery voucher.

Barry said:

“We’re grateful to the council for the gates, installed in 2017, as before it was just a dead unused space that was susceptible to antisocial behaviour.

“The gates have been instrumental in allowing us to transform the space and create a community garden, with many passers-by saying how beautiful it looks, and we are continually working to expand and grow our alleyway even further.”

The competition judges were extremely impressed by the high standard of entries this year.

Councillor Daalat Ali, joint deputy leader and cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said:

“What a delight that this competition is still so well supported after 17 years. The hard work and dedication of residents that goes into maintaining and updating these alleyways should be applauded.

“These gates are vital for many to lock out crime, but they offer much more than that when we see outstanding entries such as these that make such a difference to people’s lives in more ways than one.”

The alleygating scheme aims to reduce the opportunity for burglary, antisocial behaviour, malicious fires, and fly-tipping by installing lockable steel gates at no cost to homeowners at both ends of back alleyways that have experienced or are at risk of crime.

More than 600 schemes are in place across the borough, and funding is available for new gates to be installed.