Something truly powerful happens when communities unite with a shared purpose. We’re seeing this increasingly as residents across our communities roll up their sleeves and come together to transform neglected alleyways behind their homes. While most of these spaces are privately owned and fall outside the adopted highway network — meaning Flintshire County Council’s Streetscene department isn’t legally responsible for their upkeep — local people are stepping up to make a real difference.

What might seem like an overwhelming task for one individual becomes not only manageable, but enjoyable, when neighbours joined by volunteers unite to take action. A recent project in Golftyn Ward showcased an incredible display of community spirit, as residents not only cleared their own alleyway but also extended their efforts to tackle another one across the road.

These clean-up efforts are about more than just rubbish removal. They provide an opportunity for neighbours to connect, get to know each other, and create a stronger, more cohesive community. At this recent event, one household set up a tea, coffee, and biscuit station, another resident baked a cake, and the councillor provided butties — proving that every contribution counts, whether it’s hands-on physical work or simply keeping everyone refreshed and motivated.

“Everyone brings something different to the table,” said Keep Wales Tidy Officer for Flintshire, Carolyne Prew. “Not everyone needs to lift bags — helping can mean anything from making drinks, sharing information, and using their connections, to simply showing up in support.”

This latest project will also see CCTV installed in the alleyways, funded by Cllr. David Franko Richardson through the Golftyn Residents Fund — a move that has proven effective in similar initiatives in Connah’s Quay and Mold. In those areas, once residents began working together and established open communication, fly-tipping stopped altogether.

Each clean-up effort is supported by awareness-raising materials such as proper waste disposal, Duty of Care, and how to report fly-tipping. Over time, many alleyways become self-policing. New residents are welcomed with a letter explaining the group’s values and simple expectations to keep the area clean.

Where illegal dumping had once become the norm, community-led monitoring and awareness have now completely changed the dynamic. In past projects, even just a few households installing CCTV has made a significant impact. In one case, after being approached by the group, the household responsible removed illegally dumped waste within the hour.

These efforts highlight the power of community action. When residents come together with a shared goal, they can transform and reclaim their spaces — making them more visually appealing — while also preventing environmental harm and building lasting relationships in the process.

All of these projects were made possible thanks to the cooperation of local councillors, Flintshire County Council’s Streetscene department, and Keep Wales Tidy — who continue to empower communities to take ownership of their local environments by funding waste removal from areas nominated by Streetscene but which fall outside their direct responsibility. Each project is unique to its area — its progress, final outcome, and long-term sustainability depend heavily on the residents’ expectations, commitment, and willingness to engage with us.

For more information on how to get involved in local alleyway clean-ups or to start a project in your area, please contact keepflintshiretidy@flintshire.gov.uk.