"Trackbed"

Design concept

A ‘Trackbed’ is the term used to describe the groundwork onto which a railway track is laid. The design takes its inspiration from a disused railway crossing and length of track on the Welsh border. It is intended to capture the atmosphere of the location rather than provide a faithful reproduction.

The garden has been designed to bring attention to the restoration work being carried out by Cambrian Heritage Railways Ltd and promote the ecological value which both in-service and disused railway lines can provide. Largely native planting has been used to create a naturalistic look and provide food sources and habitats for a variety of wildlife. The trees, shrubs and other planting provide a ‘green corridor’ between habitats. Plants of varying sizes and at different stages in their life-cycle have been included to be suggestive of a naturally evolving landscape.

A simple, open fence allows views out to the surrounding countryside but prevents stock from accessing the ‘track’. Reclaimed railway sleepers, ballast, rail chairs and short pieces of rail lend authentic detail to the construction of the ‘Trackbed’.