CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 15,000 homes in a rural village just four miles outside of Reading have been confirmed by the town's main authority.

Secret documents, which were leaked to the Chronicle, revealed that Reading Borough Council, West Berkshire Council and Wokingham Borough Council, planned to build 15,000 news home in Grazeley.

The massive development, which will stretch from the borders of Spencers Wood to Mortimer, was finally announced to the public last week, and council bosses of the three authorities have written to the government to request funding.

Neighbours in Grazely have already voiced concerns over the proposals, including fears over increased traffic.

Peter Towndrow, of Grazeley Green, said: " Apart from the major disruption to the area during the building work, 15000 houses equates to at least an additional 30000 cars.

"During my time living in Grazeley Green, the traffic on Goring Lane, which runs through the middle of our hamlet, has intensified to such a degree that even the simple task of driving out of my property is now far more dangerous than it ever was, due, in the main, to the speed of the vehicles, as many of the drivers blatantly ignore the 50 mph limit.

"With an additional 30000 cars a couple of miles down the road I can envisage my access situation just getting worse and worse."

The plans would see 15,000 homes built over 20 years, as well as shops and other facilities. The site is one of several options being considered by the three authorities.

Councillor Tony Page, Lead Member for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport at Reading Borough Council, said: “We know that demand for housing in this area is indisputable, as is the need for affordable housing. This level of housing growth is not deliverable however without the right infrastructure in place."

Cllr Hilary Cole, Executive Member for Planning and Countryside at West Berkshire Council, added: “The Council has a duty to find suitable sites for housing and secure accommodation for future generations. This proposal can only be delivered with significant infrastructure which will require government funding and we will continue to work with our partners to explore the viability of a new garden city.”

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