A former red telephone box in Bishopsteignton is to reopen as a nature station in March.

The redundant BT phone box on Fore Street will become ‘a little hub for nature, growing and climate action’, a spokesperson from Bishopsteignton Climate Impact Action said.

After a makeover, which involved ensuring the box was painted the correct shade of red, Bishopsteignton wildlife wardens have spent the past couple of months designing and fitting out the interior.

The box will enable residents to swap seeds and share posters and information about local wildlife, nature and climate-related events.

The idea to turn the phone box into a seed swap and information centre for wildlife-friendly gardening and the community plot was one of several suggested by villagers after Bishopsteignton Parish Council acquired the kiosk last year.

Bishopsteignton Climate Impact Action (CIA) said it was looking forward to sharing information and seeds to enhance wildlife gardening across the parish.

Bishopsteignton Parish Council has been working closely with local community groups and volunteers to consider the environment and climate change in its decision making so it can contribute to a safer, more resilient neighbourhood for residents and nature.

In November, councillors agreed to go ‘pesticide-free’. This means that as well as ensuring all its green spaces are managed without the use of chemicals, the Parish Council is also committed to raising awareness about how residents can support a pesticide-free parish at home.

‘We are very appreciative of all the time and effort freely given by all members of Climate Impact Action – community volunteers working with Parish councillors and the Parish clerk,’ commented Bishopsteignton Parish Council chair Henry Merritt as the move to become pesticide-free was announced.