PROPOSALS to build a new dedicated bus, pedestrian and cycle route in the town have gathered momentum after going live to the public.

The original planning application for the East Reading Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) was launched in July and a number of changes have been made following concerns about the loss of trees and risk of flooding.

Updates have been made after a public consultation and further suggestions can be made about the revised scheme until May 18.

The MRT will not allow cars or private vehicles and if approved, it is thought the work could start as early as Spring 2019.

Tony Page, lead member for Transport, hopes the East Reading MRT will make public transport a more attractive option to commuters in a bid to cut down on congestion and pollution.

He said: “The planning application for a dedicated new bus, pedestrian and cycle only route has been updated following feedback received during the statutory consultation period.

"As a result, the proposed scheme now sees a greater retention of trees, a net increase in biodiversity and continues to provide a net an increase in flood storage capacity.

“I would stress once again that the proposed new bridge over Kennetmouth, which is part of the East Reading MRT, is intended for public transport, cyclist and pedestrian use only."

Opposition councillors branded the project as the 'Labour Road to Nowhere' and believe the scheme would 'destroy' the wildlife along the River Thames.

Funding has been obtained externally through Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership's growth deal, following a successful bid by the council.

Cllr Page added: “During peak hours this proposed bus-only link from Thames Valley Park along Napier Road will save buses up to 15 minutes by bypassing the often congested and slow-moving London Road/Cemetery Junction/Forbury Road route.

"This new and faster route has become established, it will significantly increase the attractiveness of public transport services. With the creation of new park and ride sites, and the possible expansion of existing ones, it is forecast that many thousands of car commuter journeys will switch to public transport, thereby reducing forecast congestion and improving forecast air quality in east Reading.”