A fresh plan for a new self-built home on a long vacant site in the university area of Reading has been given the go-ahead.
A new self-built home has been approved for a long-vacant site in the university area of Reading. Located opposite Wantage Hall on Upper Redlands Road, this unused garden space has been dormant for years.
The site has a complicated planning history. Although a home was approved in December 2021, it was sold off in April 2022. The current owner submitted a fresh plan, which was rejected last May, but a revised proposal this year replaced red brick with white stone render and a slate roof.
Concerns were raised about the design's suitability for the area. Councillor Will Cross (Labour, Redlands) expressed that the new design might not fit well within the conservation area, unlike the previously approved modern design.
Cllr Cross stated that while he supports housing on the site, the design should not adversely affect the area's character. Meanwhile, Cllr Richard Davies (Labour, Thames) welcomed the new family home, noting no public objections and emphasising the need for family housing in the area.
Ultimately, the planning applications committee unanimously approved the project on Wednesday, September 10. You can view the granted application by searching for reference PL/25/0620 on the council’s planning portal.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
