Idea to up biodiversity

West Bay sits at the intersection between the built and natural environments. The wide promenade, built in the 1880s to replace a narrow rocky beach path, makes West Bay easily accessible to walkers, wheelchair users and cyclists.

Mature trees and hedging, which line the Argyll Street edge of the station are alive with birdlife. The trees are planted on a regularly mown lawn. The trees give the main road, Argyll Street, a lush appearance. The Argyll Road side of the station has a large section of open lawn, which doesn't appear to be used for anything and is regularly mown. 

The grounds of the community hospital are mainly to the front, running along Argyll Street (A885). Mature trees are dotted around one section of the large lawn area. The lawn appears to be regularly mown, except for one thin strip by the pavement on Argyll Street. A couple of trimmed native hawthorn trees grow along the same edge, near to the bus stop on Argyll Street. The blossom attracts pollinators and the dense growth habit of hawthorn makes it a safe habitat for small birds. 

The one saving grace of this small and neglected public park is the stunning display of cherry blossom in April and May each year.  Despite its name, there are no roses here any longer. Close to both local supermarkets and doctors' surgeries, this site could offer much more as a space to rest and relax in the heart of the town. The long-closed public toilet block is a blight site.