THIS is the first view of developers' plans to revamp the site of Homebase and Toys R Us into a 700 to 800 home complex.

In designs being put out for public viewing London and Quadrant (L&Q) will be giving neighbours a chance to browse and comment on the project at a series of open meetings.

The scheme comes as the leases run out on the Kenavon Drive two retail outlets and give investors an opportunity to breath new life into the area.

Among the homes will be a series of community squares including restaurants and a convenience store.

The proposals will also include affordable housing and homes available to rent and for shared ownership.

Maxine Powell, design and planning manager for L&Q said: "We have approached this scheme by trying to reflect the history of the site as the former Huntley & Palmer Biscuit Factory, one of the three famous B’s of Reading, which you wouldn’t realise from the site today.

"We want to open the space back up, make good use of the riverside and use traditional materials in a modern way to reflect and respect the listed prison opposite and the historic Abbey ruins."

Two public consultations will be held at: - The Bel and Dragon, Blakes Lock, Gas Works Road on June 8 from 4pm to 8pm - Waterfest, Forbury Gardens and Chestnut Walk on June 11 from 11am 5pm.

In a scoping opinion document submitted to Reading Borough Council last month - which allows developers to test the water before drawing up formal designs - L&Q set out how in addition to the homes they would look to build around 1,200m[2] of commercial/retail space as well as revitalise the riverside spaces with two new squares.

For more details see online at www.lq-kenavondrive.co.uk