Rail industry and community rail volunteers have spent a team-building day transforming overgrown areas at Rochford Station.
Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (CRP) enlisted the help of staff from Rail Delivery Group (RDG) to help Rochford’s team of station adopters create a new cottage garden area and install a bug hotel, funded by Community Rail Network.
The team of volunteers spent the day digging, weeding, and planting, using ‘seed bombs’ to create a wildflower area that will support pollinators and other wildlife.
Catherine Gaywood, Essex and South Suffolk CRP Officer, said: “We were delighted when the Rail Delivery Group team said they were looking for a beneficial project for a team building day, as there are always plenty of opportunities on our lines in Essex.
“I am really pleased with the results of everyone’s hard work and look forward to seeing the station filled with flowers in the spring, with all the positive benefits that will bring for wildlife and passengers alike.”
Daniel Mann, Director of Industry Operations at RDG, said: “I’m delighted to see the results of our staff working alongside other volunteers on such a great project. Transforming neglected spaces into vibrant, welcoming places for all, inspires and connects local communities and we are glad to have been a part of that approach at Rochford.”
Paul Webster, Support and Development Manager at Community Rail Network, said: “Making stations part of their local community is one of the main aims of community rail, so we are really pleased to have been able to support Essex and South Suffolk CRP with a funding contribution for this project.
“The commitment of the CRP shows how relationships between the local community, Greater Anglia and the wider rail industry have worked together to turn this disused piece of land into a vibrant and colourful space which will greet passengers now and into next spring with a bright floral display as they pass through the station.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects, and events from the Essex and South Suffolk CRP via their website.
