New Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge Over River Thames Planned

PLANS to build a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Thames take a step forward this week when Reading Borough Council begins initial consultation on the proposals, in advance of a planning application being submitted in June.

The structure – which will look similar to the one the Council built recently over Junction 11 of the M4 – will provide an important new link for pedestrians and cyclists across the Thames and into the Town Centre.

It is proposed that the bridge will be located to the east of Fry’s Island, between the existing Caversham and Reading Bridges.

The new bridge will be funded through Reading Borough Council’s successful £20.7m Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) bid, which aims to create an additional 7,200 daily bus trips, 12,050 daily walking trips and 2,300 daily cycle trips across the town, whilst cutting congestion by up to 10%. Other highlights of the Council’s project include expanded Park and Ride facilities, working with neighbouring boroughs, and a bike hire scheme for Reading, along with a range of other initiatives.

Any comments or queries with regards to the proposal can be made via email to [email protected] or by completing the attached slip of the consultation document which can be returned in the freepost envelope enclosed. All comments need to be in by May 18. Alternatively, please visit the website at http://www.reading.gov.uk/council/consultations.