Buzz Shelter first of its kind in Copeland

A BUS stop in Frizington is leading the way in environmental sustainability.

The new Buzz Shelter at Moor Place has a ‘living roof’, created by Copeland Council’s Open Spaces team and funded by Cumbria County Council.

The roof is covered with sedum plants, making the bus shelter the first of its kind in Copeland.

Incorporating living roofs into urban architecture is better for the environment, helping prevent flooding and reducing carbon dioxide. It also increases biodiversity and provides a natural home for pollinators and other insects.

Copeland Council’s Portfolio Holder for Open Spaces, Coun Andy Pratt, said: “We are delighted the county council has asked us to do this. It supports all the other work we've been doing to create pollinator-friendly habitats across Copeland. We hope this is the first of several."

The project was also supported by Frizington and Arlecdon Parish Council, and their Clerk, Gwynneth Evans, is pictured with Coun Pratt.

Emanuel Flecken, Copeland’s Parks and Open Spaces Manager, said: “Sedum plants like lots of sunlight and don't need much water, so they are perfect for living roofs.

"Little maintenance is needed, as these low growing plants spread and prevent weeds - effectively they take care of the environment they are growing in. Our team will check the roof twice a year for destructive weed growth like tree seedlings, but otherwise it is nearly self-contained micro habitat."