Reading's central area strategy approved

A planning inspector has assessed the strategy for central Reading drawn up by the borough council as "sound".

Approval of the council's Central Area Action Plan (RCAAP) followed a public inquiry and is an important milestone in creating new development opportunities in the heart of the Berkshire town.

Approval means Reading Borough Council joins a group of around 20 local authorities nationwide that have to date received approval for more than one Development Plan Document. This follows the adoption of Reading's Core Strategy in January 2008.

The inspector's report has endorsed the council's growth strategy focused on the regeneration of three 'major opportunity areas' around the eastern, western and northern fringes of the centre.

This includes regenerating the area around the station, which links in with the forthcoming improvements to the station itself.

The inspector backed the council's approach which looks for a mix of uses on key sites, including housing, and supported the planning authority's approach to tall buildings.

Specific areas have been identified as appropriate locations but the inspector has removed reference to maximum heights in each of the three areas, arguing this could be viewed by developers as targets, rather than maximum heights.

Tony Page, lead councilor for planning at Reading Borough Council, said: "This is a clear and positive endorsement of a considerable amount of work undertaken by the council. It's been based on a clear vision for the development and growth of Reading in as sustainable a way as possible. Notwithstanding the current economic slowdown, Reading is well placed to continue with regeneration plans for a number of key sites in and near the town centre."

Read the Reading Borough Council press release.

Roger Milne

20 November 2008