Storm storage: TPE trials new planter at North Yorkshire station

The planter at Northallerton station captures water runoff from guttering before it can enter drains, helping to reduce the risk of local drainage networks being overwhelmed during storms, leading to flooding or pollution. 

As well as storing water, the planter also provides multiple habitats including native wildflower planting, a bee hotel and deadwood zones, acting as a refuge and habitat for pollinators and other insects.   

Steve Gilder, Environment Delivery Lead at TPE, said: “This is so much more than just a planter – it will provide so many benefits at Northallerton station, from increasing biodiversity and housing wildlife to reusing and attenuating rainwater, and combatting flooding. 

“At TPE, we are committed to having a positive impact on the environment – and this is one of the many schemes you can expect to see on stations across our network that does just that."

Made by ecology and horticulture specialists BioScapes, the planter will be trialled for six months, with the possibility of more being installed across the train operator’s network if successful. 

Terry Smithson, Head of Nature Based Solutions at BioScapes, said: “It’s great to work with TransPennine Express as they enhance the area for biodiversity as well as enhancing the customer experience.

"There are new requirements on water companies, local authorities and lead local flood authorities to clean our waters and the SuDS system that we’ve installed here will take water off the roof and filter it through a specially developed soil.

"The plants will help to clean that water as well, so that when it comes out of the bottom of the unit, back into the drains, it’s much cleaner and much better for our waterways.”

TPE aims to lead and enable sustainable tourism and transport across the North of England and into Scotland through its commitment to sustainability.    

More information is available on the train operator's website: tpexpress.co.uk/about-us/sustainability/