East Marsh residents have come together as part of an initiative to clean-up a neglected alleyway and transform the area into a safe space for the local community.
Last week over 20 residents of Wellington Street and Castle Street joined forces with East Marsh ward councillors in a powerful display of community spirit and collaboration. The project, dubbed the ‘Community Fightback,’ demonstrates residents’ commitment to improving their environment and creating a space everyone can enjoy.
Residents of the two streets recently established a community group in response to issues linked to absentee landlords. While some landlords have been part of the challenges faced by the community, the group emphasises that their focus is not on blaming all landlords but on improving neglected properties.
Initially, the group united to support a joint petition with East Marsh ward councillors, urging the Council to implement stronger housing regulations, including Selective Licensing and an Article 4 direction. A business case for these measures is currently in development, chaired by East Marsh Ward Councillor Nicola Aisthorpe within the Selective Licensing Working Group at North East Lincolnshire Council.
Residents have since expanded their community group and are now dedicated to cleaning and maintaining their alleyway which has been a source of concern for local families due to illegal dumping, vandalism, and safety hazards for years. However, in recent weeks, residents armed with shovels, brooms, and a shared vision for change have come together to clear the area. East Marsh Ward Councillors Nicola Aisthorpe, Loyd Emmerson, and Steve Beasant have actively participated in the cleanup efforts as well, and they helped organise waste removal with plans to provide new alleyway gate locks.
Resident and community group lead, Jill Bee, shared the motivation behind the effort. She said, “For years, this alleyway had been a no-go area, and we were tired of seeing it fall into disrepair. By coming together, we’ve shown that plenty of residents care about our area and want the best environment for their families. With the help of our ward councillors, we’re reclaiming this space, so that it becomes a source of pride for all of us.
“We have formed a community group of residents, who have bonded together to tackle some of the issues affecting our daily lives and neighbourhood. Our plan for the alleyway includes creating a community allotment and a safe play area for children. Additionally, we aim to foster relationships and collaborate with others to build a resilient and sustainable community for the future”.
Another resident, Ms Emsley, added: “I often get asked why I choose to live in the East Marsh, and the simple answer is this: I’ve never been part of a community so determined to work together to overcome the challenges we face. The strength, resilience, and unity here are unmatched, and this alleyway transformation is proof of what we can achieve when we come together.”
Councillor Nicola Aisthorpe said, “This action day is a shining example of what can be achieved when we all come together. Residents are transforming a neglected space into a vibrant part of their community, and their commitment is truly inspiring. I am delighted to support their efforts”.
She added: “As we worked to clear the alley, it was wonderful to see children come out with their families, making new friends and playing games like tag in the newly cleared area. It was a heartwarming moment, with the community coming together and breaking down barriers right before our eyes”.
Councillor Steve Beasant said, “I have been a councillor on the East Marsh for over 20 years, and over the years my Lib Dem colleague and I have been involved in many alleyway clearances; this alleyway was the best community effort that I have been involved in. Residents of all ages came out and got ‘stuck in’ – they have made a massive difference in their local community.”
Councillor Loyd Emmerson added, “At the last elections, I promised residents that I would roll up my sleeves and help clean up our area, and I am pleased to be delivering on that promise by getting involved in the alleyway clean-up. It was great to join residents in helping to transform this space. The sense of community and togetherness in the East Marsh is fantastic, and I’m excited to see how this initiative continues to grow and make a lasting, positive impact in the neighbourhood.”
There is still more work to be done in the alleyway in the coming weeks, but the community group plans to organise more action days and regular patrols to keep the area clean and safe. They also intend to host events like alleyway markets, family fun days, and community gardening activities, encouraging everyone to get involved.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.