Resident Questions Wokingham Regeneration Celebrations

A Wokingham resident has criticised council Facebook posts celebrating the near‑completion of the town centre regeneration.

Planning began in 2010 and the multi‑million‑pound project has delivered an enhanced Market Place, the new Carnival Hub, business space in Peach Place, the transformation of Elms Field and more.

The complaint was raised at a full council meeting on July 23 and read out by borough mayor Rob Comber in the questioner's absence.

Phillip Challis asked: "The council Facebook page has recently been promoting the virtues of the Wokingham Town regeneration, which was somewhat controversial when it was approved.

"It is not clear who is responsible for the content of these posts, which, although not overtly party political, are surely political.

"One post, with a series of photos of events, states ‘This is what Wokingham was regenerated for - creating well-used community spaces open to all’.

"Future posts should clarify that this was a Wokingham Town regeneration and not a Wokingham regeneration, as residents of other population centres in the borough already feel forgotten and wait impatiently for news of when their areas will be regenerated.

"I am sure there were many reasons for the regeneration. Could you publish a full review of the success or otherwise of Wokingham Town regeneration judged against the full range of objectives, including the financial aspects, which would offer residents a more balanced and less political interpretation of success than the current selective posts?"

Councillor Imogen Shepherd‑DuBey said the master plan set out objectives such as creating a thriving town centre, supporting an 18‑hour economy, improving public spaces and delivering high design standards. She argued success should be measured by the experience of people who live, work and visit the town, noted businesses have reported a positive impact, and pointed to national and international awards recognising the scheme's design, financial delivery and community focus.

She added the town had adapted and "thrived" despite Brexit, COVID, a change of government and other challenges, and said the council and community should be proud of the lasting positive impact on Wokingham town centre.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter