Work is set to commence linking South Reading, Royal Berkshire Hospital, the University of Reading the town centre with a two-way cycle route.

Construction will take place in phases along Shinfield Road, beginning at Christchurch Green on October 3.

Changes will include double yellow line  on Shinfield Road along the route to address parking issues being near the University.

Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport, said: “I’m delighted we are now in a position to announce a start date for the Council’s work to introduce a fully segregated new cycle lane along the Shinfield Road.

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“This was the clear choice of nearly 1,000 respondents to our initial consultation in early 2021.

He continued: “As part of our wider Climate Emergency Strategy, this work underlines the Council’s wholehearted commitment to tackling poor air quality which we know exists in parts of Reading.

“It has never been more important to create realistic alternatives to the private car, not only in terms of tackling congestion and air quality but also for the residents and local communities who live on key routes.”

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The first phase of works will be split into three sections:

  • Chancellor’s Way junction to Pepper Lane
  • Junction of Queens Drive to Chancellor’s Way
  • Christchurch Road to Queens Drive.

During the works pedestrian routes will be maintained at all times, either via a diversion of the existing pathway around the construction works or with crossings to an alternative footpath on the other side of the highway.

New advanced stop lines and early release for cyclists will be provided to improve safety. A number of new and improved crossings for pedestrians are also a key element of the scheme.