THE FUTURE of the iconic Cemetery Junction arch in Reading remains a talking point as views are being sought on plans to transform it into an arts venue.

The Junction Arch the Heritage and Arts group (JAHA) have a plan to bring the arch into use as a community and arts heritage hub.

The local landmark is currently owned by Reading Borough Council, and is set to be sold to the group on a 250-year lease.

But in order to buy the arch, the group will have to apply for funding from the National Lottery Heritage fund within an 18-month window.

To have a chance of successfully achieving the funding, the group will need to demonstrate that they have a realistic plan to make it into a self-sustaining venue and that the local community is behind it.

READ MORE: Community group aims to transform iconic Reading arch

Before a funding application is submitted, the group is keen to get input from neighbours and residents.

JAHA is conducting a consultation at the arch itself at Reading Old Cemetery in London Road from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, October 1.

Richard Stainthorpe, one of JAHA’s directors, said:  “After over three decades working with communities in Reading I’m a great believer in asking people what they want rather than telling people what they will get. I would urge residents to share their thoughts by participating in our consultation, either in person or online.”

The consultation questionnaire will also be available online at https://www.junctionarch.org/

JAHA plan to substantially renovate the arch itself, and build minimal impact structures to its rear which would form a garden café and a flexible meeting room or space for exhibitions.