Local people have been working on an overgrown patch of railway land in Liverpool to give it a new lease of life.

Earlier this year, Network Rail signed a community licence with the Springbourne Community Garden team, and since then, volunteers and residents have been working to transform the area.

They began work in May earlier this year with the support of the community and local councillors.

The space has been cleared and is now a welcoming garden with fruit and vegetables.

Over 1,200 hours of volunteer work went into the project, generating around £1.5 million in social value.

People can now visit the area to learn new skills, gardening tips and spend time in nature, while finding a new way to connect and socialise.

The garden will continue to grow, with plans in place for additional planters, a patio, and increased wilflower presence and is looking to secure funding for its future.

“We’re very proud to support projects like Springbourne Community Garden, that not only gives new life into disused railway land but also leaves real, lasting benefits for the local people. It’s amazing to see the passion, energy and teamwork of the residents shining through in this project, and we’re delighted to play a part in it.”

Paul Owen, Network Rail’s area director in Liverpool