Across the Wales and Borders network, biodiversity has been increased at 25 stations thanks to Transport for Wales‘ Green Routes project.

The project aims to create greener spaces and increase biodiversity presence along rail routes over 18 months. The project increased green areas at the 25 stations as well as 5 community areas.

Transport for Wales sustainability and community teams have worked with 176 volunteers to boost biodiversity in more than 1,000sqm of land. They have placed 125 planters on station to go with their 300 green features.

The project was enables by the Green Routes project which was supported by £100,000 funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund through the Welsh Government’s Local Places for Nature Scheme

Transport for Wales have monitored their stations which are already seeing an increase in species abundance and more pollinators present.

The stations involved in the project are:

North Wales: Abergele, Bangor, Conwy, Glan Conwy, Llandudno Junction, Porthmadog and Rhyl.

South Wales: Abergavenny, Barry, Caerphilly, Cardiff Bay, Cwmbran, Llandrindod, Llanwrytd, Pontypridd and Treherbert.

West Wales: Ammanford, Bridgend, Ferryside, Haverfordwest, Kidwelly, Llandovery, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Pontarddulais.

The five community projects are BronFair Allotment Association, Cambrian Village Trust, Enbarr Foundation, Taff’s Well village hall and Twyn Community Hub.

More information about the Green Routes Project can be found at tfw.wales

Dr Louise Moon, Sustainable Development Programme Manager at TfW, said: “The project has been a huge success, helping to improve biodiversity at stations throughout Wales and make them more colourful and welcoming spaces for our passengers.

“A number of teams across TfW have worked hard to bring the project together and we have to pay tribute to the work of our community volunteers and station adopters across the country. We’re proud to have worked them on this project in being able to support their ambitions and aspirations in creating green spaces which not only support biodiversity but also supports the health and well-being of local people and communities.”