Seeing the need for improved shelter for passengers waiting for taxis and buses has inspired a passionate group of volunteers to build an environmentally friendly pergola with seating at Uttoxeter Railway Station.
Led by local volunteer Mick Eyre, Environment Maintenance Manager for Stoke-on-Trent City Council for 31 years and 2007 Gold Award winner at the Royal Horticultural Society show at Tatton Park, and North Staffordshire Community Rail Partnership, who work to promote and develop the Crewe-Stoke-Derby line, the Pergola has been planted with climbing plants to create cover and provide habitats for insects and birds.
In addition to the plants the structure is decorated with imaginative paintings of minibeasts created by pupils from St Mary’s First CE (A) School following classes with artist, Tracy McGuiness-Kelly.
Funding partners for the Pergola include East Midlands Railway (EMR), CrossCountry Trains and the Association of Community Rail Partnerships.
Councillor McGarry, of East Staffordshire Borough Council, said “The station is a very important gateway to the town and we are grateful to the Uttoxeter Station Adopters for their hard work in keeping it colourful, clean and welcoming.”
Mick Eyre commented “It has been a real pleasure to work with the other volunteers and with EMR staff on this project. The pergola will look lovely when the plants have grown up and covered it, providing cover for passengers when they’re waiting for taxis and buses. I’ve enjoyed using my skills to complete this much needed shelter for the station.”
