Theale Votes Against Reading's Boundary Expansion

Reading has been snubbed by Theale in the land grab attempt to bring it, and four other villages in West Berkshire, under its wing.

Reading's effort to incorporate Theale and four other West Berkshire villages has been firmly rebuffed. In a recent parish poll, Theale residents voted overwhelmingly—95% in favour—to remain part of West Berkshire.

Despite this, Reading Council insists its extensive consultations have shown strong support among residents in Calcot, Tilehurst, Purley-on-Thames, Pangbourne, and Theale for a connection to Reading, particularly among younger residents.

The council plans to submit its final boundary proposal by November 28, coinciding with Oxfordshire’s local government plans.

Alan Macro, Theale's Lib Dem councillor, celebrated the poll results as a clear rejection of Reading's boundary expansion, urging Reading Borough to respect the wishes of Theale residents.

This boundary debate has intensified following West Berkshire's surprise announcement of a partnership with Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire councils to form a new authority named Ridgeway.

Reading's leader, Liz Terry, noted that their proposal to expand into Theale arose only after West Berkshire’s move in March. She acknowledged the poll but insisted it was non-binding and that government decisions will ultimately determine any changes. Terry emphasised that Reading’s growth necessitates a review of its boundaries, as many residents in neighbouring areas rely on Reading for work and services.

She argued that grouping Reading’s outskirts with a new Ridgeway council does not align with the need for sensible economic areas, highlighting that the current borough boundaries are over a century old and do not reflect the town's dynamic regional economy.

Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter