A new 17.73-hectare green park looks set to be created south of Reading at Duck's Nest Farm in Arborfield, surrounding land for up to 135 new homes. Wokingham Borough Council's planning committee reluctantly approved the plan despite worries about traffic and the loss of the green gap between communities.
Councillors were especially concerned about vehicles turning right across the A327 Observer Way. To tackle this, the committee has agreed that right turns into and out of the site will be banned under a Traffic Regulation Order, with the developer required to confirm this in writing. Drivers may have to take a longer route via the Bull at Arborfield Cross and Swallowfield Lane.
Members said the site was not ideal and would reduce the separation between Arborfield Green and Arborfield, but they backed the scheme reluctantly.
The approved plan will turn three arable fields north of the A327 into a publicly accessible natural park, kept free of buildings in perpetuity and fitted with paths, planting, seating and signage.
The site is sensitive for great crested newts and is intended to act as alternative natural green space to help ease pressure on protected habitats. Access will be via an upgraded entrance on Observer Way, with a 12-space car park and new walking and cycling links. Improvements to Arborfield Footpath 17 are supported by a £63,350 contribution.
The council plans to take the park into public ownership, backed by a long-term maintenance fund of around £1.54 million. The scheme is part of a wider hybrid application by David Wilson Homes that includes up to 135 homes with 40 per cent affordable housing. Permission remains subject to a legal agreement securing long-term management, biodiversity net gain, contributions towards local infrastructure and any necessary wildlife licences.
Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter
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