A new programme called ‘Merseyrail in Bloom’ has been launched by Mayor Steve Rotheram with the aim to make the stations in and around Liverpool and Merseyside more vibrant, greener, and welcoming.

The initiative, which was a promise during the Mayor’s election campaign, involves the Combined Authority and Merseyrail collaborating with residents along the rail network to enhance the connection of stations to local communities, similar to other projects that have already been happening at stations across the UK .

Residents living near stations and regular commuters also have a role in fighting climate change by cultivating station gardens and attracting pollinators to green spaces throughout the rail network.

At an event last week, which was attended by members from over 50 community partnerships and station adoption groups, the Mayor expressed that the goal of the initiative is to create a rail network ‘one that we’re proud to call our own’

Numerous individuals in the region already dedicate their time to the preservation of station buildings and the care of platform gardens and planters.

Merseyrail in Bloom will recognise and celebrate their dedication.

Community groups are invited to participate in the scheme by entering their stations, where their upkeep and enhancement efforts will be honoured with bronze, silver, gold, or platinum recognition.

Gardens will be judged on four criteria those being:

• Community Engagement at the station involves including, representing, and engaging with nearby communities, as well as providing opportunities for local people to contribute actively.
• Gardening involves the quality and diversity of plantings, as well as the evolving displays and their maintenance and enhancement over the course of the year.
• Artwork & Heritage, station artwork demonstrates skill and imagination by creatively interpreting the station’s history and surroundings. It reflects the area’s heritage and showcases the talents of local artists, schools, and community groups, often becoming a symbol of local pride and cultural identity.
• Environment & Sustainability, how green spaces at or around the station are maintained through various sustainability practices such as rainwater harvesting, composting, recycling, and initiatives to encourage bees and wildlife.

To support the participating groups, an additional grant of £250 per station will be provided.

 “Over the past few years, we’ve made significant investments in our region’s rail network – from a brand new station Headbolt Lane in Kirkby to a state-of-the-art fleet of fully-accessible trains, and the most important improvements are yet to come.

I want to take back control of our railways to run them in the best interests of people here in the Liverpool City Region. Merseyrail in Bloom is a new initiative that will help empower the fantastic volunteer groups who look after our stations to help make them more beautiful and welcoming places.

This is not only about growing flowers but it’s literally a grassroots initiative – growing connections between our rail stations and the people they serve. It’s all about building a rail network that works and one that we are proud to call our own.”

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region