Reading pathways improved between Katesgrove, Waterloo Meadows and Fobney Lock

Upgrades to the popular traffic-free path between Katesgrove, Waterloo Meadows and Fobney Lock have been undertaken to enable all users to access the route in all weathers.

This has included modifying obstructive barriers and resurfacing areas of the path which have degraded.

The popular route links schools, businesses and leisure destinations and is the gateway to the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath.

Until now, its use has been restricted by a number of obstructive barriers making access difficult.

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Alongside the changes to the barriers, the surface of the previously flood-prone path has been improved so that people are able to use it year-round, whatever the weather.

The project, delivered by walking and cycling charity Sustrans in collaboration with Reading Borough Council, the Canal and River Trust and Thames Valley Police, aims to provide full and fair access for everyone to enjoy the route.

Path regraded at Rose Kiln Lane with new link to Kennet Island (before and after)

Sustrans reviewed the National Cycle Network in 2018, including Route 4 in south Reading.

The ‘Paths for Everyone’ review found that much of the route was inaccessible.

The improvements have been made possible thanks to a £20m funding package from the Department for Transport to improve the network across England.

Sustrans identified six obstructive barriers within three kilometres on this route, which were installed several years ago primarily to deter motorbikes.

Sustrans has engaged with local residents, landowners, councillors and the police to understand how to monitor and minimise the risk of motorbikes and anti-social behaviour along the route.

Discussions are ongoing with several approaches identified to ensure the security and safety of path users.

Currently, extra lighting is to be installed at the Katesgrove underpass with CCTV monitoring at Waterloo Meadows and Fobney Lock.

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The once restrictive barriers at each end of the meadows are now fully accessible.

One kilometre of the path has been resurfaced from Waterloo Meadows to Rose Kiln Lane, with a new link to the path to the Kennet Island housing development.

At Fobney Lock the path has been resurfaced and one restrictive barrier has been removed while another has been modified to improve access.

Work to install lighting and modify barriers at Katesgrove Underpass is due to commence in the near future.

Councillor Rose Williams, Reading Borough Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the result of the improvements to this popular route in Reading.

"It was a pleasure to work alongside Sustrans on this project, it is a real transformation and we hope many more people of all abilities will be able to enjoy the route now and for years to come.”