London Street: Initiative boosts Baghdad neighborhood property values

BAGHDAD – In Ghazaliya neighborhood of Baghdad, the streets are clean, and some sidewalks are covered with grass. During Ramadan, decorations of moons and stars hang above the streets, adding to the neighborhood’s charm.

This is part of a citizen-driven initiative in Ghazaliya called “London Street” that has sparked a wave of emulation among residents, inspiring them to replicate its success and sparking a proliferation of beautification efforts across numerous streets. This grassroots movement has not only elevated the aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood but has also contributed to a notable increase in property values.

Originating years ago on Alley 47, nestled within the Presidential Square of Ghazaliya, homeowners embarked on a collective mission to enhance the visual charm of their surroundings. By improving the exteriors of their homes and meticulously maintaining the cleanliness of their street, sidewalks, and gardens, they laid the foundation for what is now affectionately known as London Street.

Mustafa Saleh, a dedicated local, recounted the genesis of the initiative to 964media, stating, “The moniker London Street came about years ago when the residents decided to rely on themselves to organize and clean the street at their own expense, to present it in the best possible condition.”

Saleh went on to highlight the significant rise in property values along London Street, attributing it not only to its picturesque ambiance but also to its advantageous proximity to the Ghazaliya Bridge and the main thoroughfare.

The London Street project forms part of a broader community endeavor to enhance living standards. This includes the establishment of inviting public gardens, the direct sale of agricultural produce by resilient farmers despite waste management challenges, and the celebration of local sporting heroes.

Amidst these positive developments, community members are also advocating for improvements to local amenities, such as a swimming pool and the revitalization of sports fields, though funding remains a pending issue.

However, alongside the momentum for positive change, residents are raising concerns about persistent issues such as stray dogs and neglected infrastructure, underscoring the community’s proactive commitment to self-improvement and civic engagement.