Volunteers revitalize Britain’s train stations with gardens
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Across the United Kingdom, volunteers are transforming railway stations from neglected spaces into vibrant gardens, and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) now recognizes their efforts with a new award.
Since 1964, communities have participated in the Britain in Bloom competition, and the RHS recently launched the Railway Stations in Bloom competition to acknowledge station volunteers.
This year, the Cardross Community Organic Garden in Scotland won the inaugural prize for its inclusive approach, involving school children and other groups in station upkeep. Gardeners in Alresford, Essex, overcame a hot, dry summer by creating a “dry garden” inspired by the late horticulturalist Beth Chatto, planting drought-resistant plants and reviving a previously “rundown” station. Volunteers reported that residents now contribute plants and compost, and the station’s flowerbeds now compare favorably to displays at the Chelsea flower show.
At Cardross station in Scotland, Jane Connolly and her team have cultivated fruit trees and vegetable patches despite harsh winters, choosing hardy shrubs and windbreaks to protect their plants. Volunteers at other stations, including Maghull in Merseyside and Wylde Green in Birmingham, have focused on creating habitats for pollinators and improving biodiversity. The volunteers also noted the social benefits of their work, forming friendships and creating opportunities for commuters to connect.
Belgrave in Alresford hopes to expand their work by opening a community hub and coffee shop on the station grounds.
