New plants for stations along Heart of Wales line in Powys
Five stations along the Heart of Wales line have been given new floral planters as part of a biodiversity scheme funded by a Welsh Government Local Places for Nature grant.
The planters, located at Builth Road, Llandrindod, Penybont, Knucklas and Knighton, aim to support wildlife and improve the appearance of the stations.
Ben Mullen, nature recovery officer with the Powys Nature Partnership, said: "We were looking to fund green infrastructure on the transport network in Powys and involving Transport for Wales, their local volunteer station adopters and the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership was a perfect fit.
"In addition to perennial, pollinator-friendly plants, native wildflowers were planted into peat-free compost.
"These will provide pollen and nectar for many species such as bees, hoverflies, butterflies and moths.
"The planters will act as 'stepping stones' within the wider environment and show that small-scale planting can make a big difference to our declining nature."
The project is a collaboration between Transport for Wales, the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership, and local station volunteers.
Geraint Morgan, community rail manager for Transport for Wales, said: "Stations are important gateways to communities along the line and first impressions matter.
"This grant has helped enhance existing green features at the five stations, which will be cared for by our dedicated teams of local volunteers."
The planters were made by Norman Industries, a supported employment enterprise based in Haverfordwest.
Owen Griffkin, community rail officer for the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership, said: "We were delighted to partner with Powys County Council in making our stations more welcoming for the community and the many tourists who travel on the railway.
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