The move is a ‘positive step towards the arrival of Eden Project North, and can support local bee populations by nurturing biodiversity.
Lancaster City Council has replaced two bus shelters in its jurisdiction with nature-positive public transport infrastructure. Both of the stops were no longer fit for purpose, one having reached the end of its serviceable life, the other suffering extensive damage in a road traffic accident.
The work itself was carried out by Clear Channel, which has partnered with the local authority since 2002, and currently have a contract for bus shelters. As such, the living roof models are being installed as part of the existing agreement, at no additional cost to the public. The same is true going forward, as the company, not local government, is responsible for upkeep and repairs to both the structure and the flora, with local native wildflowers planted among the turf.
Living roof bus shelters are new to Lancaster, but other UK cities have experimented with the idea. Back in June 2021, Environment Journal covered a living roof bus shelter being installed at Palmeira Square, Brighton. Wildflowers and sedum plants were used for the top covering, favourites of many pollinators, including bees.
In addition to assisting vulnerable species, living roof bus shelters can also help with rainwater distribution and powered with renewable energy. Other British local authorities to utilise the technology have included Leicester City Council.
Take a look at the living roof bus shelters being installed below. You can find more information out about the project here.
You may have seen some work going on at the Battery,Morecambe.
The bus stop has been replaced and now features a roof of native wildflowers. It’s to support native biodiversity and bees and done in partnership with Clear Channel, who have paid for the replacement. pic.twitter.com/RX7xtZ9GJd— Lancaster City Council (@LancasterCC) June 4, 2024