The two main associations representing businesses and residents in the village said they are putting forward plans to benefit both shoppers and drivers.

Caversham Traders Association and Caversham and District Residents Association are hosting a public meeting that will outline a strategy they have been working on with experts . The plans have so far been kept under wraps.

A spokesman for the combined forum said they want to look for a proper strategy for traffic to run more smoothly and for pedestrians to move more freely.

A second meeting hosted by the two organisations will be held at the Baptist Centre, Prospect Street, tonight (Wednesday) from 7.45pm.

Jeweller Chris Walton, chairman for the traders, said: “The time has never been better to make Caversham a better place to shop.

“With the regeneration of St Martin’s Centre we have the perfect opportunity to show that a revised road layout with a proven track record will benefit pedestrians and motorists alike.” Helen Lambert, the chairman for the residents, said: “If local people, businesses, councillors and council officers all come on board to develop a clear strategy, we stand a far better chance of seizing opportunities for funding and actually making this happen.

“Other centres have managed it and Caversham has been left behind.”