News

• Avoid counterfeit goods this Christmas
• Steer clear of dangerous toys online
• Don’t be tempted to borrow money from unscrupulous loan sharks

Council joining forces with Creative Lives, a national charity that promotes taking part in creative activity to boost well-being and help people feel connected to the place where they live.

• Annual Civic Carol Concert being held at Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, 14 December from 6:30pm
• Service includes carols, readings, and a performance from Ukrainian choir Kryla

• Planning approval for 47 new affordable Council homes and a respite care facility
• Developments to make use of pockets of Council owned land

• Consultation launched on Reading’s Air Quality Action Plan 2024-29
• Reading’s air quality is improving but some areas are still above pollution targets
• Measures in the plan to benefit people’s health, the environment and quality of life

• Council planning policy aimed at reducing the number of sub-standard homes in Reading now covers only 21% of the scheme's original area after a Government ruling
• Permitted Development Rights can lead to residents moving into areas that are unsuitable as places to live, due to noise, disturbance and air quality issues

• Latest budget update shows the financial impact of high inflation and increased demand for Council services as the cost-of-living crisis continues
• Nearly £13 million in savings, efficiencies and income likely to be required over the next three years
• Council awaits Local Government Finance Settlement details before finalising its budget in February

• Students from eight local secondary schools debating climate change in Reading council chamber
• Local decision makers, experts and activists quizzed by students in a Climate Question Time
• Annual Reading Model Climate Conference celebrating its 10^th anniversary

• Council funds new Sunday 650 bus route to serve south Reading
• Free to use throughout December
• New route part of the Council’s £26m Bus Service Improvement Plan

• The next bidding round of the Council's popular Small Grants Fund scheme has opened today
• Community groups have another chance to bid for a share of £100,000 worth of funds to host activities, particularly in parts of Reading where need is greatest
• Huge array of activities took place as part of last year's Council initiative

• Public consultation launches today on key local planning document which will help shape the future of Reading 
• Council is proposing changes to increase the number of family-sized homes, affordable homes and set high standards for developers on sustainable housing
• Residents have until the end of January to take part