Llandeilo station, set in the picturesque town along the Heart of Wales Line, has welcomed eight new volunteers to Transport for Wales’ station adoption scheme.

The Friends of Llandeilo Station has been formed with the support of Carmarthenshire based Ynni Sir Gar and Llandeilo Town Council. During Community Rail Week, the volunteers’ first task was to clear and tidy the concrete planters on Platform 1. Excellent progress was made in planting a range of new perennial plants and adding a layer of bark to help retain moisture.

More recently, four new wooden planters, manufactured by Norman Industries in Pembrokeshire, have been installed on Platform 2. Norman Industries is a supported employment enterprise operated by Pembrokeshire County Council in Haverfordwest. It provides employment, work experience and training opportunities for people with disabilities.

The planters were painted and lined before being filled with a blend of peat-free compost and topsoil, providing a sustainable growing medium for a variety of hardy perennial plants. The improvements have complemented the work carried out on Platform 1, where the existing concrete planters have been given a fresh coat of paint in a pastel shade inspired by the colourful properties that characterise the town of Llandeilo. Together, the enhancements have helped to create a more attractive and welcoming station environment while celebrating the local character of the community.

The station friends group has brought together local people, Ynni Sir Gâr and members of the town council who share a commitment to caring for the station and celebrating its role as a gateway to Llandeilo and the Heart of Wales Line. 

Speaking on behalf of the station friends, Vanessa Bolton-Roe said; “It has been wonderful to see people giving their time and energy to improve the station. The new planters will help create a cheerful summer welcome for everyone using Llandeilo station, as well as providing a small boost for local biodiversity. The Friends of Llandeilo Station group will continue to care for the planters, helping them thrive and keeping the station looking bright and welcoming throughout the summer.”

Geraint Morgan, Community Rail Manager for Transport for Wales, said; “As one of the key destinations along the Heart of Wales Line, we're delighted to welcome the group to our station adoption scheme. In just two sessions, the volunteers have made an immediate impact, which is great to see.”

He continued; “As well as creating a positive first impression for visitors, these attractive new planters will help support biodiversity at the station through carefully selected plants that provide valuable habitats and food sources for pollinators and other wildlife."