New plans to redevelop Meadway precinct

Outline plans have been submitted to to Reading Borough Council redevelop the Meadway precinct in Tilehurst for new retail and 266 new homes.

Developer Chillingham, via Leeds-based ID Planning, proposes to demolish some of the shops and homes in the centre, which was built in 1967, but retain key retailers such as Boots and add new units. The current 27 homes will be replaced by 266 new properties.

The new retail classes includes A1 (shops), A2 (professional services), A3 (food & drink), A4 (bars) A5,(takeaways) D1 (non-residential institutions) and D2 (leisure).

Chillingham was granted permission for a scheme in 2017 but the new plans include more residential.

The application states: “The proposed re-development of the precinct will provide a high-quality, thriving and inclusive district centre providing a widened range of services and facilities for the local community.

“It will act as a much-needed community hub for the local area, providing somewhere that local residents can meet, and serving all residents of all ages.

“It will be a desirable place for people, including families, to live and it will be easy and safe to move around for pedestrians connecting well to the surrounding areas by all modes of transport.

“The re-development of the centre will be designed and laid out in a way that attracts visitors, connects well to its surroundings, provides high-quality public realm and is sustainable and durable.”