A new landscaping project

Improving the natural seascape

Work is to start on Tuesday April 10th to improve the natural seascape area at Black Rock, south of the Volks Railway Marina Station. The work will involve arranging the ground contour to enable the smaller plants there to thrive in dips and crevices. This will increase their survival rate and ensure that they do not get suffocated by the larger species and weeds. One species of flower of particular interest to us, is the beautiful Allium ampeloprasum ssp babingtonii or Babington’s Leek. This plant has an unusual onion shape, not unlike the roof of the Royal Pavilion

Babington’s leek

Babington’s leek

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A landscaping programme

A landscaping programme will be rolled out over the summer/autumn/winter taking into account the different flowering cycles of the plants. The Volks Railway permanent way, is a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) and the work we are doing will enhance the experience for the passengers and walkers as they pass through this area either on the train or on the promenade.

Can you volunteer?

David Roberts the project manager will work closely with the environmental team within Brighton and Hove City Council, and the staff at the Volks Railway. David is a member of VERA, the Volks Electric Railway Association and he can be contacted through 01273-292718. If you wish to help out on the Railway as a VERA volunteer please contact the Volks Office on 01273-292718 for more details or Email Alan James who is the VERA membership Secretary at alanjames812@hotmail.com