A plan to convert a prominent office building in Reading town centre into dozens of flats has been rejected over flooding concerns.
A plan to transform the Pinnacle office building in Reading town centre into 58 flats has been turned down due to flooding concerns.
The building, located on Caversham Road and close to the main train station, was originally set to offer 54 one-bed and four two-bed flats, down from an initial proposal of 70.
Future residents would have had access to 37 parking spaces and 48 cycle parking spots, with some electric charging options available.
However, Reading Borough Council rejected the plans, stating that converting the office space to residential use would increase flood vulnerability. A planning officer noted, "The change of use proposal would increase the flooding vulnerability risk of the building."
The Flood Risk Assessment highlighted that flooding could restrict access to the site, forcing residents to stay indoors during flood warnings. Key issues identified included inadequate information on flood levels and the impact of climate change.
The council concluded that the proposed change from a 'less vulnerable' office to 'more vulnerable' residential use would not effectively manage the flood risks, leading to the plan's rejection on August 26.
To view the application, visit the council's planning portal and search for reference PL/25/0929.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
