A new sustainable taxi shelter which is set to accommodate passing bees and butterflies, as well as waiting passengers, has been installed in a town centre.

The structure has replaced the old shelter at Worthing’s main taxi rank in Chapel Road.

Fitted with a “living roof” full of wildflowers and sedum plants, the shelter is rich in nectar to support birds, insects and animals on their travels.

Worthing Borough Council said the living roof will also positively contribute towards climate resilience by absorbing falling rainwater, capturing polluting air particles.

As well as supporting biodiversity, the council said the lighting and visibility of the structure has also been improved, to further the council’s work to ensure that vulnerable members of the community get home safely.

The shelter in Chapel Road has been installed by Clear Channel UK and adds to the two living roof bus stops which were upgraded on South Street last year.

The Argus: The shelter in Chapel Road has been installed by Clear Channel UK The shelter in Chapel Road has been installed by Clear Channel UK (Image: Worthing Borough Council)

The new shelter has been paid for by the council and also features the colours, logo and website address of the borough’s place brand, Time for Worthing.

Councillor Vicki Wells, Worthing’s cabinet member for the environment, said: “It’s fantastic that this taxi shelter has been improved to help support biodiversity.

“The green roof is full of goodness for passing pollinators. Sedum flowers are especially accessible for honey bees and I can’t wait to see it in a few months time when the flowers begin to bloom - it will look fantastic.”

Will Ramage, Clear Channel UK’s managing director, said: “The installation of a living roof on top of a taxi shelter is a fantastic example of the numerous possibilities these structures can provide.

“We enjoy seeing how local authorities utilise living roofs to showcase how we can be creative in making space for wildlife, even in our most urban areas, and we look forward to our continued work with Worthing Borough Council in the future.”