Reading Hills Meadow Car Park Proposals

Reading Councilis considering proposals to lease out a largely unused corner of Hills Meadow car park for the operation of a hand car wash business, which will also provide toilets for free public use and improved security at the car park.

The small gravelled area is situated immediately behind and to the side of the recycling banks at Hills Meadow and is frequently used as a dumping ground for flytipped waste.

Reading Borough Council has received an approach from an established local businessman who wants to use the space to operate a hand car wash business. As part of the proposal, the business would provide staff and customer toilets which will be made available for free, general public use during opening hours. There are currently no toilet facilities at the site to cater for the significant level of leisure use of the site.

There are also currently no surveillance cameras at Hills Meadow car park and the proposals would see the installation of CCTV cameras to protect the business. Hills Meadow regularly experiences problems with anti-social behaviour, including ‘boy racer’ activity, graffiti and flytipping. It is anticipated that the presence of the CCTV would help to deter this behaviour. A catering kiosk for waiting car wash customers would also be an additional amenity for users, including young people who use the neighbouring BMX and skate facilities.

The proposal still requires planning permission from Reading Borough Council’s Planning Applications Committee. Any planning application would therefore be subject to public consultation and the opportunity for residents to comment. Opening hours of the car wash business would also have to be agreed as part of the planning process.