Rail passengers arriving in Caterham will now be welcomed by an array of colourful blooms, thanks to Caterham Rotary Club and Govia Thameslink. The two organisations are working together on a new initiative to enhance the appearance of the station, starting with the planting of wildflower seeds in the area between the two platforms. The Westway Centre’s Men in Sheds group has also built two wooden planters, which are now full of flowers and shrubs.
Rotarians Peter Freebody and Malcolm Russell with one of the new planters at Caterham station
The project also aims to create art and information displays, with input from local schools and businesses, as well as other publicity aimed at encouraging trade and visitors to the town.
Community engagement officer for Govia Thameslink, Rob Whitehead said:
"We are delighted to be working with Caterham Rotary as part of our station partnership scheme, which brings people together to make a positive difference in their community. Caterham Rotary has great plans to create additional partnerships with schools and businesses, which will foster a sense of community spirit as well as promote access to, and understanding of the railway across diverse groups.
The enhancements to the station, which is often the first sight a visitor will have of Caterham, will help to create a welcoming gateway to the town. The artwork and planting will also have added benefits, such as encouraging rail use as a sustainable travel option and helping to reduce anti-social behaviour."
Geraint Jenkins, project leader for Caterham Rotary is pleased that a start has been made:
“It is now full steam ahead to get all groups in our community to work towards creating a facility we can proudly call The Gateway to the Surrey Hills!”
To find out more, email caterhamrotary2@gmail.com.
