West Byfleet Station blooms with vibrant botanical murals

Posted 30/11/2023

Retirement Villages Group (RVG) has unveiled its latest community initiative, in partnership with South-Western Railway, to affix previously crafted botanical-themed murals across West Byfleet Rail station; providing a slice of artistic flair for passing commuters to enjoy.

Students from Woking College had previously collaborated with local artist Nathalie Beauvillain Scott to create a series of lively art murals which were affixed across the Botanical Place development site’s hoardings.

After a stint beautifying the walk along Station Approach, the 20 meticulously crafted panels, adorned with captivating floral motifs, were held in storage for two years; until the West Byfleet Community Gardening Group had the idea of using them to brighten up the railway fences around West Byfleet Station.

After receiving considerable support for the idea from the local community and holding a brief discussion between gardening group founder Rebecca Bradshaw, Director of South-Western Railway Claire Mann and the West Byfleet station manager, this community initiative ended up a resounding success.

Working with local community, the Higgins team at Botanical Place helped attach the murals to the station fencing and complement the efforts of the West Byfleet Gardening Group to transform the local rail station’s appearance through the bedding out of a diverse range of plants and flowers.

Terry Unitt, Senior Project Manager at RVG, said ‘It was great to see the West Byfleet community work together again in support of our latest community initiative, which exemplifies how sustainability and community organisation can enhance amenities and provide joy for local residents. Thanks to West Byfleet Community Gardening Group for their efforts and I look forward to collaborating again in the future!’

Wade Pollard, chairman of the West Byfleet Neighbourhood Forum, added ‘We were very pleased with the efforts of the Botanical Place team in helping to transform West Byfleet rail station. The murals are a fantastic way to acknowledge West Byfleet’s unique past as an essential oils distillery, and it’s great to see them brightening up our town once more!’