Plans in for 2,800-home Reading neighbourhood

The University of Reading has submitted a hybrid planning application for 2,800 homes as part the proposed Loddon Garden Village scheme.

Of the homes, 40% will be allocated as affordable through below-market rent and shared ownership schemes.

There will also be a new park, gardens, sports facilities alongside two new primary schools, one secondary school and early years provision.

Meanwhile, a district centre and two local hubs with shops, services, a healthcare centre and a supermarket are also included in the proposals.

The submission was compiled by real estate company Savills on behalf of the University of Reading.

If approved, detailed applications for individual parcels of land will follow.

Wokingham Borough Council will now begin its statutory public consultation, alongside a detailed review of the application by planning officers.

The proposals will also be discussed at the local authority’s Local Plan Inquiry, beginning this month, where their alignment with Wokingham’s long-term planning strategy will be considered.

The wider Loddon Garden Village project is expected to deliver around 4,000 homes in total.

Philip Brown, planning director at Savills Reading, said: “This application is the culmination of more than four years of collaborative work and consultation to develop a scheme that will deliver much-needed new homes, including affordable provision, alongside new infrastructure, services and facilities to the benefit of existing local communities, and new residents of Loddon Garden Village.”