Woodbridge train station ready to host swallows as new nest boxes are installed

County councillor for Woodbridge, Caroline Page, had previously complained to train operator Greater Anglia after swallows nests were removed during the station’s redecoration.

Ms Page also objected to the installation of anti-pigeon measures such as metal spikes and netting in the roof.

At the time Greater Anglia said they were working with the RSPB to make the station more attractive to birds but had, had to deal with an infestation of pigeons in the station’s buildings.

This morning the operator made good on its word and installed nest boxes for the swallows next to their old nesting venues in the station.

Councillor Caroline Page attended the installation of the nesting boxes and says she is thrilled with them and with Greater Anglia’s response to the issue more widely.

“I am absolutely delighted.

“We saw the problem, told them and they responded to our concerns.

“That is what a good company should do.

“It couldn’t not better.”

Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia’s asset management director, said: “We care about the environment and we know the swallows are important to people at Woodbridge.

“The new nest boxes are designed to attract swallows to nest. They are made out of clay and designed to be the exact dimensions of nests built by swallows.

“We do all we can to support the environment and local wildlife, which is why Greater Anglia is a member of Suffolk Wildlife Trust.”

A spokesperson for the East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership said: “We welcome the initiative to work with the RSPB to install bird boxes at Woodbridge Station.

“With the station located on the banks of the River Deben, a wealth of wildlife can be seen all year round.

“Just along the line at Melton, the Community Rail Partnership has recently refreshed the platform garden with plants specifically chosen to support bees and other wildlife.”

The swallows are expected to migrate back to the area in a few weeks time.