Plans to install new biodiversity boosting bus shelters across Maidstone will take a step forward this month, with installation set begin in the town centre.
The installation of the Landmark II bus shelters form part of the council’s ongoing investment in a greener, more attractive and sustainable borough. They will replace existing town centre shelters, providing improved facilities for passengers while delivering a range of environmental benefits.
Provided by Bauer Media Outdoor UK, they feature Living Roofs planted to support bees and other pollinators, while also helping to improve air quality, absorb rainwater and reduce surface water runoff.
The shelters will also include low-energy LED lighting to improve visibility and safety for passengers. Sensors ensure lighting is only provided when needed, helping to reduce energy consumption and minimise light pollution.
They are fully recyclable and have been designed to allow for future technology upgrades, including improved passenger information services.
Councillor Clive English, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Enforcement said: "These new shelters represent a significant investment in Maidstone's public transport infrastructure and our commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable borough.
"As well as providing improved facilities for bus passengers, the shelters will help support biodiversity, improve the appearance of the town centre and contribute towards wider environmental goals. They demonstrate how everyday infrastructure can play a role in creating a healthier and more attractive place for residents and visitors."
Councillor Tony Harwood, Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Management said: “The design of the new bus shelters is another piece of the jigsaw needed to adapt the county town to an increasingly extreme climate.
“The new bus shelters will help cool their local environment, reduce run-off during heavy rainfall, and provide a resource for our beleaguered pollinating insects.
“The innovative new shelters also look good and are part of the transformation so desperately needed to improve the quality of the town centre.”
Will Ramage, Managing Director at Bauer Media Outdoor, said: “The best public infrastructure should work harder for the communities it serves. These Living Roof shelters have been designed to improve the day-to-day passenger experience while also supporting biodiversity, reducing energy use and contributing to a greener town centre environment.
“Maidstone Borough Council has set out a clear ambition to create a more sustainable and attractive borough, and we’re delighted to help support that through infrastructure that brings practical and environmental benefits together.”
To minimise disruption, installation work will be carried out overnight between August and October. This approach has been chosen to reduce impacts on bus passengers, businesses, residents and visitors during the daytime. While some temporary disruption may be unavoidable, every effort will be made to keep this to a minimum.
The council would like to thank residents, businesses and bus users for their patience while the improvements are carried out.
Once complete, the new shelters will provide a more welcoming environment for passengers while contributing to the council's ambitions for a greener and more sustainable town centre.
[Image provided by Bauer Media Outdoor UK]