Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Right down our alley

by Ethos public relations

Gardening is, quite literally, right down residents' alley in Higher Broughton as the local community have transformed ordinary alleyways into a flower-lover's paradise.

When Salford Council alley-gated several alleyways in the area last year granting unique access to residents, the community started thinking how they could put them to better use. They decided to invest in potted plants, hanging baskets, flower boxes and wall brackets so that all of the neighbours could enjoy the new green space.

Lucy Gore, Chair of Hill Street Residents' Association said: "After watching the BBC series The Street, which was partly filmed on Rock Street, we felt that the area looked awful and were keen to do something about it.

"We started on Hill and Bowker Street - transforming the alleyway there - and have since moved onto alleys connected to Hill/Rock and Todd Streets and Murray/Rock Streets. With just Todd Street alleyway to work on, we think it would be great if the BBC could return to film the change - I think viewers would be amazed at the difference!"

Funding for the gardening tools and plants was provided through a grant from The Community Foundation for Greater Manchester, plus contributions were made from local housing associations Contour Homes and Salix Homes.

"The Hill Street Residents' Association should be praised for their efforts in transforming Higher Broughton," said Michelle Peart-Simpson from Contour Homes. "They really have got stuck in applying for funding and buying and planting flowers, and they should be proud of the difference they have made."

Posted at 21^st September 2009