Seaton’s new bus stop brings eco-friendly innovation to seafront

A bus stop and shelter featuring a ‘living roof’ has been installed by Devon County Council on Seaton’s Esplanade, offering a modern, eco-friendly upgrade for public transport users. 

A bus stop and shelter featuring a ‘living roof’ has been installed by Devon County Council on Seaton’s Esplanade, offering a modern, eco-friendly upgrade for public transport users. 

East Devon District Council (EDDC) has also laid out the next steps to improve the surrounding area further. 

The shelter’s living roof, planted with low-maintenance greenery, attracts pollinators like bees and insects providing a connection with nature.  

This innovative design is part of a county-wide initiative to upgrade public transport facilities, with over 70 similar shelters already in place.  

Passengers at the Seaton stop, which has been funded by Devon County Council, using Department for Transport Bus Service Improvement Plan funding, with a significant contribution from Seaton Town Council towards the associated works, also benefits from an electronic ‘real-time’ information display, improving the overall travel experience. 

Looking ahead: Shaping Seaton’s seafront space 

With the bus shelter project complete, attention now turns to the surrounding open space.  

EDDC has acknowledged the mixed feelings from residents and visitors about the removal of the previous flower beds. While some mourn their loss, others view this as an opportunity to rethink and enhance the area. 

The district council has opted for a phased approach, keeping the space open for now to observe how it functions without additional street furniture. 

Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC’s Portfolio Holder for Coast, Country, and Environment, said: “We know this area is a focal point for Seaton, and we want to ensure any future changes truly reflect the needs of the community. By leaving the space open temporarily, we can explore creative and practical solutions that enhance vibrancy and attract more visitors to the seafront.”

However, the council is also setting realistic expectations, with long-awaited coastal defence works planned for 2025 its envisaged that the area may be needed while vital works are undertaken – temporarily limiting what can be done with the area and achieved in the short term. 

Councillor Jung added: “We will consult with the public in due course, but we need to manage expectations by ensuring that options are achievable before sharing them.” 

Next steps: Public consultation to follow 

EDDC is committed to involving the community in shaping the space’s future but emphasises the need for careful planning.  

Internal discussions will first identify the relevant statutory requirements and safety considerations in order that potential uses are feasible, safe and sustainable. 

In the meantime, the central roundabout flower beds, owned and maintained by the town council, will remain as they are, while both councils explore the potential removal of a narrow, damaged flowerbed along the seawall to the east, when budgets permit. 

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “This new bus stop in Seaton provides a safer and more pleasant waiting area for passengers. The living roof design has been well-received across the county, showcasing how public transport can contribute to the local environment. We’re excited to see how this improvement will complement future developments along Seaton’s seafront.”