Greater Anglia could introduce plants at Manningtree station

Greater Anglia says the plants it wants to introduce at Manningtree train station produce flowers and fruits, which will provide wildlife benefits while adding a further dimension in terms of colour and texture, to the controversial metal wall.

The rail operator also wants to plant a new narrow native hedgerow at other points to help mitigate the impact.

A screening opinion is now being developed to see if an environmental impact assessment is needed as part of any planning applications.

Expansion - the structure was constructed as part of car park expansion works at Manningtree station (Image: Charles Clover)

It comes after a metal barrier was installed separating the cars from the footpath as part of Greater Anglia’s plans to expand parking to provide 226 more spaces in March 2020.

Tendring Council has asked the rail operator to undertake a review of the car park work to identify potential additional landscape measures.

An express grant of planning permission was not obtained for the works as it was understood the works could be done under permitted development rights.

Greater Anglia, which needs a decision on the screening opinion before it can submit a planning application, said: “The proposed landscape enhancements at the station will aid in enhancing the overall landscape character and quality within this utilitarian area, reflecting the higher quality landscape of its wider surroundings.

Frustrated - campaigners at Manningtree station (Image: Charles Clover)

“The planting along the retaining wall will add a further colour and texture dimension to the wall, visually breaking the scale of the wall up into smaller parts. Consideration should be given to sourcing the plants locally, as there are several plant nurseries within the area.”

Tendring Council said: “Greater Anglia is currently putting forward a request for a screening opinion on the development at the Manningtree station.

“They are still in the middle of providing us with the plans and documents for consideration; once we have all the documentation together that they wish us to consider, we shall give them due consideration in accord with the current environment impact assessment regulations and provide the requested screening opinion on the merits of the proposal.”