A Powerful Display of Community Spirit and Partnership

In the heart of Coventry’s Stoke district lies Ball Hill. Decades ago, this corner of the city was a vibrant destination for shopping, socialising, and community life. 
But over the years, as buildings were subdivided and businesses came and went, Ball Hill began to lose its shine. And then came the Covid-19 pandemic—a turning point for the area. Bin usage changed, fly-tipping became more common, and the streets started to tell a different story. A sense of decline crept in. 

But a group of local residents refused to let Ball Hill be forgotten. 

Planting the Seeds of Change 

In 2022, supported by Coventry-based charity Grapevine, a determined group of volunteers came together to form Destination Ball Hill. Their goal was bold and simple: to restore pride, beauty, and a sense of ownership to their neighbourhood. 

“I remember when Ball Hill was a destination,” said Jon, one of the group’s founding volunteers. “People came here to shop. It was clean, vibrant, and full of life.” 

Rather than waiting for someone else to step in, they took action. Analysing satellite images, they traced the growing litter problem back to the pandemic. They noticed how commercial bins, especially when overflowing or poorly managed, became hotspots for waste—and they knew something had to change.

Litter Picking, Friendship, and Local Action  

In summer 2024, Ball Hill became an official Cleanup Hub. Partnering with the local Two-Tone café and church, Destination Ball Hill began hosting litter-picking equipment for anyone to borrow, making it easy for residents to get involved. They also launched monthly clean-up events on the first Sunday of every month. 

But for many, it’s about more than just tidying up. It’s about connection. 
“When we pick as a group, it’s more visible,” shared Sue, another long-time volunteer. “I’ve made friends I didn’t know before. It really feels like we’re making a bigger impact together.” 

Sue and Jon even supported one local resident who had become overwhelmed by rubbish piling up in his front garden. “Helping him manage his bins wasn’t just practical—it showed him people care,” Sue explained. “It means a lot to be able to support each other like that.” 

Partnerships That Make a Difference 

The impact of Destination Ball Hill has gone far beyond litter picking. Through strong relationships with businesses, residents, and the council, the group has created lasting change. Their visible presence and constructive approach have helped shift perceptions and improve services. 

“The council has an ongoing dialogue with us,” said Leonie from the group. “They’ve installed more cameras on the streets and issued notices to shops about their bins. They’ve even managed to fine a number of offenders.” 
And the community is noticing. 

“We’ve definitely seen a difference,” said Mark, a local business owner. “Some of us already clear our areas when we open up. We want to improve the area. We hope others will take notice and use the new litter and butt bins.” 
Another shopkeeper added: 

“I would love to join in—taking care of our environment is so important, and it’s also important for attracting business to the area.” 

To target one common problem—cigarette litter—the group introduced handmade cigarette butt bins using simple recycled buckets. It was a low-cost solution with high visibility, and it’s already making a difference. 

Working Together, Not in Isolation 

Sue stresses that real change requires cooperation: 

“To make real change, we need the council—we can’t work in isolation.” 

Rather than fueling frustration, the group focuses on solutions. 

“People get angry and complain to the council,” she says, “but DBH want to help clean the streets to stop people complaining in the first place.” 

And that mindset is paying off. In just 12 months, the group has removed over 272 bags of litter from Ball Hill’s streets. More importantly, they’ve helped spark a cultural shift—making it normal for residents, businesses, and officials to care more visibly for the area. 

Looking Ahead 

Ball Hill’s story is far from over, but thanks to the work of Destination Ball Hill, it’s heading in the right direction. Through consistent effort, practical problem-solving, and a belief in the power of community, they’ve reignited a spark that was nearly lost. 

They’re not just picking up litter. 
 They’re picking up pride. 

And they’re showing what’s possible when neighbours come together to fight for the place they call home.