Business Secretary Celebrates Reading's New Landmark

The business secretary recently visited a landmark office building in Reading, Berkshire, to celebrate the town's economic success.

Peter Kyle MP, the secretary of state for business and trade, toured One Station Hill to see how the 17-storey flagship is attracting global brands. He was joined by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading Central, and Liz Terry, leader of Reading Borough Council.

One Station Hill was completed in December 2024 by the Lincoln MGT joint venture. The building, opposite the train station, is occupied by Pepsi Co, business management consultancy PwC, healthcare company Kenvue and office provider NewFlex.

Mr Kyle said: "Reading is one of our fastest-growing local economies and One Station Hill, and the companies I met there, embody that dynamism.

"It is a clear demonstration of how a Labour council, working with Labour MPs in government, can help build the infrastructure needed to get our economy growing."

Mr Rodda added: "I'm delighted to welcome the Business Secretary to see One Station Hill.

"Fast and effective public transport and this landmark building are creating new jobs and business opportunities here in the heart of Reading."

Councillor Liz Terry said: "This magnificent building is testament to the years of hard work so many people have put in.

"One Station Hill exists thanks to everyone who backed our refurbished station, new Elizabeth Line terminus, and the dedication of so many Reading residents and supporters.

"We will continue to back key projects to deliver for Reading."

Lee Fearnhead, Director of Construction for UK & Europe at Lincoln Property Company, speaking for the joint venture, said: "Station Hill is a dynamic, collaborative and amenity-rich destination in the heart of one of the UK’s fastest-growing urban centre economies.

"The development is breathing new life into the capital of the Thames Valley, combining London-grade office space, award-winning new homes and a number of high-profile retail tenants.

"The majority of floorspace in ONE Station Hill is now let, with global occupiers PwC, PepsiCo, Kenvue (Johnson & Johnson) and NewFlex embracing our vision of a vibrant, regenerated and transformed gateway to Reading.

"Station Hill has established Reading’s position as a focal point for commercial innovation, collaboration and long-term growth in the region."

The visit took place on Thursday, March 5.

The construction phase was not without controversy: fires at the site happened in July and November 2023. An investigation into the November fire led the Health and Safety Executive to advise that construction companies 'design out hot work' on building sites in advice issued last June.

Two people were treated for smoke inhalation after the November blaze, with crane operator Glen Edwards rescuing a fellow worker who had become trapped by the flames.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter