Petition Launched to Revamp Biscuit Tunnel

A petition has been launched to make the underpass known as the Biscuit Tunnel safer for pedestrians and cyclists in Reading. It links Kenavon Drive with Luscinia View and runs under eight railway tracks. The tunnel was once used to transport biscuits from the historic Huntley & Palmers factory and was reopened in 2015 as a walking and cycling route.

David Clarke, the newly elected Green Party councillor for Thames ward, has launched the petition asking Reading Borough Council and Network Rail to work together to tackle long-standing concerns about the tunnel's condition and safety.

Residents say the tunnel has fallen into disrepair, with problems including dog fouling, litter, graffiti, inadequate lighting, flooding and non-functioning CCTV, and a recessed area at the western (Napier Road) entrance identified as a safety issue.

The petition calls for:

• clearing dog fouling and litter, removing weeds and cutting back overgrown vegetation;
• removing graffiti and exploring a mural to celebrate the tunnel's industrial heritage;
• improving lighting and restoring CCTV;
• tackling the annual flooding that can make the tunnel impassable;
• filling the small recessed area at the western entrance identified by residents.

Councillor Clarke said: "The Biscuit Tunnel is a valuable asset for Reading. Every day it helps people walk and cycle safely across the railway, but too many residents have told me they feel let down by its current condition.

"Simple improvements such as cleaning, better lighting, working CCTV and tackling flooding would make a real difference. I'm asking everyone who wants to see a cleaner, safer and more welcoming tunnel to support this petition."

A neighbour commented: "Improving the tunnel would mean so much to local residents. It’s dirty and dangerous, I personally avoid it during evenings because lighting in that area is poor, and all year round there’s problems with litter, dog poo and graffiti."

The petition can be found here: www.dub.sh/biscuit

The campaign aims to show public support for investment and encourage the council and Network Rail to work together to deliver lasting improvements. Residents are encouraged to sign and share the petition.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter