READING will again pay homage to Oscar Wilde by naming another street after the famous Irish playwright, it was yesterday announced.

The new street will be at the former British Gas depot which consists of 192 properties.

But due to the existing numbering of the houses in Kenavon Drive it is not possible to continue with the numerical sequence and it has been determined that three new road names are required.

The proposal to name one of the streets after the writer stemmed from him spending two years in Reading Prison during the 1890s which led him to write the Ballad of Reading Gaol.

Reading Borough Council's lead member for strategic environment, planning and transport Councillor Tony Page supported the proposal at last night's Planning Committee meeting.

He said: “First names should all be included I think, as the choices are personal to the people.”

Councillors agreed to name the remaining two streets Alexander Buller Turner – a member of the Royal Berkshire Regiment born in Reading who during the First World War was awarded a VC – and the late Robert Parker.

Councillor Mohammed Ayub delivered an emotional speech on Mr Parker who volunteered for both the Reading Community Welfare Rights Unit and Reading Voluntary Action.

He said: “If there were more Roberts in the world I think it would be a much better place.”

Reading has also dedicated a popular memorial walk to Oscar Wilde in Abbey Road.