First sections of cycling and walking improvements on Shinfield Road nearing completion
Our plans to improve cycling and walking along the Shinfield Road are progressing well, with the first sections of the cycle lane from Chancellor’s Way junction to Pepper Lane nearing completion.
The works, which started in early October 2022, will deliver a new cycle route along Shinfield Road – between Christchurch Green and Shinfield Rise and will link south Reading and the Royal Berkshire Hospital, the University of Reading, local centres and Reading Town Centre. It links with existing new cycle routes delivered by the council on Redlands Road and Christchurch Road in the first stage of its Active Travel programme.
The improvements also include the provision of no waiting restrictions (double yellow lines) on Shinfield Road along the route, which should address the parking issues being experienced particularly near the University. 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.
In order to minimise disruption and improve the delivery of the scheme, it is being constructed in sections with the first from Christchurch Green – Pepper Lane now almost complete. Following the full completion of this section later in March, work will continue from Pepper Lane to Cressingham Road, followed by Cressingham Road down to Shinfield Rise at the edge of the borough. It is anticipated that the scheme will be completed by the end of the summer with many sections open for use sooner.
During the works, pedestrian routes are being 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.
Find out more about Active Travel tranche 2 schemes or for specific questions or requirements by email to: transport@reading.gov.uk