To provide an update on progress with the delivery of the current programme of major transport projects in Reading as well as an update on progress with developing future schemes including the submission of funding bids.

The Director of Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services submitted a report providing the Committee with an update on key progress associated with the current Programme of major transport and highways projects in Reading, as well as funding arrangements for each of the schemes, as follows:

·         Reading Station Interchanges

·         South Reading Mass Rapid Transit

·         Thames Valley Park, Park and Ride

·         Reading Green Park Station

·         Reading West Station Upgrade

·         National Cycle Network Route 422

In respect of the Reading West Station Upgrade, the report explained that the scheme proposals included a new station building on the Oxford Road with associated highway alterations and interchange improvements, increased cycle parking, improvements within the station itself such as enhanced lighting and a new ticket gateline at the Tilehurst Road station entrance. Plans for the update to the station had been prepared by the Council, in partnership with Great Western Railway (GWR) and Network Rail. Funding had been secured from the Local Growth Fund (LGF) as well as £200,000 Section 106 developer contributions for the current phases of work.  Pre-application discussions with the Council’s Planning Department had been undertaken and the planning application for the scheme had been submitted to the Council in October 2020.  Subject to planning consent, construction of the initial phases of the scheme was due to commence in Spring 2021. Appendix A contained drawings of the scheme.

The report also gave an update on progress with developing future schemes, including details relating to the submission of funding bids in respect of:

·         Third Thames Crossing East of Reading

·         Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership

Resolved –

(1)     That the progress on delivery of the Programme of major transport schemes as set out within the report be noted;

(2)     That the submission for the planning application for the Reading West Upgrade Scheme by Great Western Railway be noted;

(3)     That the spend approval for the Reading West Upgrade Scheme budget of £3.2 million be granted, subject to planning consent being granted and the availability of £200,000 of Section 106 developer contributions for the current phases of work be noted;

(4)     That the progress with developing future schemes, including the submission of funding bids, be noted.