Through Northern Trains’ station adoption scheme, Cumberland Council’s Carlisle Day Services Team are transforming Dalston railway station. The changes will include the installation of beautiful plants, comfortable seating, creature habitats and art murals.
Dalston residents and railway users may have noticed work starting on the village station last week. The Carlisle Day Services Team have kicked off the development by cleaning, clearing, weeding and preparing the area. They’re now planting lavender, herbs and other sensory vegetation such as long grasses. Later this month they’ll be installing a hedgehog home, insect hotels and bird boxes. In July art murals will be designed, created and displayed on the platform for all to enjoy.
The Dalston Station project is being delivered by Carlisle Day Services in partnership with Community Rail Cumbria and Northern Trains. The works will not obstruct access to the station at any point.
Carlisle Day Services is a Cumberland Council service that provides a safe and welcoming environment for adults with learning disabilities. It helps to improve independence and quality of life by supporting people to try new hobbies, improve their skills and build new friendships.
Northern Trains’ station adoption scheme has supported the transformation of nearly 500 stations throughout Britain. The scheme creates more welcoming station environments, builds stronger links between volunteer groups and local communities, and creates a sense of ownership and inclusion with the work of the volunteers. Here in Cumbria the scheme has previously facilitated the adoption of Corkickle and Parton stations with support from Hensingham Day Services.
Councillor Martin Harris, Cumberland Council Executive Member - Adult's and Community Health, said;
“This is a great scheme that will have many benefits; for rail users, Dalston residents, and the Carlisle Day Services participants who are involved in bringing the changes to life.
“Projects such as this one can make a real difference to the lives of those we support through our Day Services Teams and provide participants with a true sense of pride.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the project progress and I’m sure the transformed station will be much appreciated by the Dalston community.”