Barnstaple Station has a new ‘signal box’ on Platform 2, thanks to work carried out by Braunton Men’s Shed and the Friends of Barnstaple Station.

The station volunteer group submitted an application to Great Western Railway’s Customer and Community Improvement Fund, which has seen the creation of the bespoke large-scale bug house, designed as a signal box.

The box has now been unveiled at a ceremony in early December, where the Mayor of Barnstaple and Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, were present.

Tim Steer, chair of the Friends of Barnstaple Station, said: “We were delighted to unveil the finished signal box in front of the Mayor of Barnstaple and the North Devon MP. 

“The North Devon Line continues to rapidly grow in usage, with the 12 stations’ total footfall up 63% since the year before the pandemic, and we know that this bug house will excite those users waiting for the next train and users arriving at Barnstaple. A special thanks to the North Devon MP who is campaigning to modernise the performance of the line for the existing and future rail users.”

Cllr Janet Coates, Mayor of Barnstaple, said: “It was an honour to officially unveil the Barnstaple Junction Bug House, created by the Braunton Men’s Shed with the local community in mind. This addition complements the ongoing improvements at Barnstaple Station thanks to the Friends group and reflects the Town Council’s strategic priority on its commitment to a cleaner, greener Barnstaple.”

Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, said: “Little projects like this make a big difference in both sprucing up the station and supporting local wildlife – it shows the pride people have in our town. Huge thanks to the Friends of Barnstaple Station, who have done so much for the station over many years, and to everyone at Braunton Community Men’s Shed for bringing this to life. It’s a great example of community creativity in action!”

Roger Byrom, chair of Braunton Men’s Shed, said: “When the Friends of Barnstaple Railway Station asked us if we would be interested in this project, we were delighted to say yes. Our Shed is in a refurbished railway carriage so making items for a train station felt just the right thing to do.”

David Whiteway, Great Western Railway’s regional development manager for the West, said: “We love how this project by the Friends of Barnstaple Station exemplifies how strong community partnerships can enhance the passenger experience and celebrate local heritage. Through the dedication of the group and the craftsmanship of Braunton Men’s Shed, this installation is not only visually striking but also a testament to collaboration and innovation. We are proud to support projects that make stations welcoming, memorable spaces for everyone.”

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Friends of Barnstaple Station on Facebook.