The new public realm at Station Hill in Reading has been unveiled to the public.
The new Friars Walk and its surrounds incorporate a new pedestrian bridge over Garrard Street, brightened up with artwork, seating areas and planting.
The Station to Friar Street route is now step-free, despite a four-metre difference in levels.
Cllr Liz Terry, Reading Borough Council leader, said: “Reading’s standing as a major economic player – both in the region and nationally – compels it to have a gateway to the town which is befitting of that reputation.
“I’m pleased to say that has now become a reality with the opening of this hugely impressive public space between Reading Station and Station Hill, which is now effectively the town’s new front door.
“The creation of an attractive green space and accompanying public square, complete with seating, sculptures and artwork, will likely quickly become a destination in its own right, and the level access from the Station towards both Friar Street and the Town Centre will be of huge benefit.
“It’s fair to say the wider Station Hill project has been some years in the making and I’m certain residents will have wondered what the final completed project would look like. I hope they will agree it’s now a hugely impressive public space which further cements Reading’s reputation as a great place to live, work and visit.”
Landscape architects at LDA Design worked with design and engineering consultant Arcadis on the placemaking vision for Station Hill.
A main square, created close to ONE Station Hill, is designed as focal point for pedestrians and to help to drive footfall between the station and the town centre.
There will be a ‘water spray’ area for children and planting and trees along the full length of Friars Walk. A stepped pocket park has also been created across the station forecourt to the north, close to the main reception of ONE Station Hill.
Cannon Ivers, director of LDA Design, said: “Station Hill creates a striking, contemporary gateway and celebrates the rich history of Reading. From the arrival at the station and across a new pedestrian bridge linking to the high street, the landscape and public realm welcomes people from all walks of life to Station Hill.
“Nature is in abundance with biodiverse planting and trees, while seating areas will create spaces for people to dwell and admire the public art and enjoy the playful water feature. Inspired by the ‘Rivers of Reading’, the public realm provides space for life to unfold for the growing community.”
Speaking on behalf of the Lincoln MGT joint venture behind Station Hill, Lee Fearnhead, director of construction for UK & Europe at Lincoln Property Company, said: “This newly-landscaped area was a previously a derelict, inaccessible site for the best part of 20 years. We have transformed it into a series of attractive open spaces which everyone in Reading can enjoy. Not only does it establish a gateway to the town; it helps to create an area open 24/7 where people working or living in Reading can meet and relax.
“In the wider context of the Station Hill redevelopment, Lincoln MGT has already invested around £50 million into social infrastructure and landscaping as well as lifestyle-led retail and leisure space. It provides an opportunity to experience Reading’s rich cultural heritage as well as instilling a sense of local pride.”
Visit the updated website at https://stationhill.co.uk/
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