News

• It will cost the Council £20.6 million extra next year to deliver services
• High inflation and more residents turning to the Council for support are behind the increased costs
• The Council nevertheless intends to continue its investment in modern new facilities for Reading 

• 18 people joined Reading Council's dedicated apprenticeship scheme in 2023, acquiring practical skills, and qualifications, and contributing to enhanced services for residents.
• National Apprenticeship Week 2024, themed 'Skills for Life', highlights the importance of apprenticeships in fostering lifelong skills development.

• Developer announced for £250 million regeneration of Reading's Minster Quarter
• Affordable homes, a new 'Hexagon Square,' a new community hub and local jobs, all form part of the major town centre scheme
• McLaren Living’s vision is for all-electric, energy efficient systems which maximise on-site renewable energy generation

• Plans to proceed with changes to vehicles allowed to use east Reading bus lane out for consultation

• Six Berkshire councils due to create new Berkshire Prosperity Board
• Councils aim to work together to secure funding and encourage investment into the county

Residents can now reserve or renew books in any of the town’s libraries with a new app.

• More British citizens living abroad now eligible to vote in a General Election following a change in legislation
• Those that have previously lived in or been registered to vote in the UK now have the right to vote in Parliamentary elections, regardless of how long they have lived outside the UK

• Mayor of Reading's annual choir competition will now also feature soloists, duets, and groups
• Live final at the Hexagon will raise money for the Mayoral charities 

• Annual Civic event to commemorate victims of the Holocaust will be held on 24 January 2024
• The free event will feature speakers, choral performances, and a candle lighting ceremony

• 15 key workers in Reading are set to move into new affordable homes
• Development makes use of the former Arthur Hill pool site, and maintains the front facade of the building
• The homes are part of the Council's £110m investment in over 400 new homes between 2021 and 2025

• Planning Applications Committee approve transformation of Civic Offices
• Civic Offices to become home of new modern Central Library
• A redesigned reception for improved customer services
• Work possible due to the government’s £19.1million investment into the town’s culture

• Three exciting designs for residents to choose from.
• Investment of £200,000 in the new Westfield Road Recreation Ground play area part of £1m Council investment in play facilities for children.