27 Mar 2023

The Green Routes Project helps to take care of the unique natural environments found near railway stations across our network. By collaborating with our communities, volunteers, colleagues and partners we set out to enhance biodiversity and reconnect passengers and local communities with nature at stations across our Network. Not only boosting biodiversity, the Green Routes project plays an important role in encouraging access to nature, supporting the well-being of people who live in the communities we serve by allowing them to engage with the natural environment as they travel with us.  

TfW was awarded £100, 000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to deliver the project under the Local Places for Nature capital grant scheme via Welsh Government. Led by our Sustainable Development & Community Rail teams, alongside our fantastic volunteers and community partners, it has seen the transformation of 25 stations and five community green spaces in the last 18 months.

Since it’s launch in May 2021, the Green Routes Project has delivered a range of outcomes and impacts; including: 

• 78% of the project spend was with local, Welsh suppliers.
• Over 300 green features installed, including 125 planters at stations
• In excess 700 hours of volunteer time contributed by 176 volunteers
• Improvements to physical and mental health and well-being
• Supported the development and expansion of our Station Adoption Programme.

Our Sustainable Development Programme Manager, Dr Louise Moon has played a key role in leading this project, “We’re proud to have worked with community groups and station adopters on this project in being able to support them with their ambitions and aspirations in creating green spaces which not only support wildlife but also support the health and well-being of local people and communities. Our aspiration is, and always will be, that transport will positively contribute to our communities now and in the future, our economy, and our environment.” 

The delivery of this project wouldn’t have been possible without our wonderful volunteers. Our Stations Adopters have worked hard to create welcoming, green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Geraint Morgan, Community Rail Manager adds: “Our volunteers who look after floral displays and gardens have been thrilled to see these enhancements at their stations as they help create a welcoming environment for passengers. Stations are often passengers’ first impressions of a village, town or city and well-maintained displays help create a good impression and a sense of pride among the volunteers.  Being part of a team that helps to maintain the displays offers opportunities to learn new skills, make new friends and contribute in a positive way that jointly benefits the railway and environment.” 

You can find out more here Green routes | Transport for Wales (tfw.wales)