A programme of pavement improvement works across the Borough of Reading begun this week. Around 160 footways have been identified that can be improved and the Council aims to treat a minimum of 30 this year and roll out a five-year programme to deliver the improvements.

The council has carried out improvement works to more than 800 major and residential roads since 2019, investing initially £9m and then a further £8m on an extensive road and footway maintenance programme This has resulted in the number of residential roads officially classified as in ‘good’ condition rising from 35% to 79% and a 39% reduction in pothole reports from the public.

An innovative new process is being used to upgrade footpaths which protects them from deterioration for years to come. It is also quicker, cheaper and more environmentally friendly than fully resurfacing but  effective in maintaining the pavement at a high standard for longer.

Cllr Finn McGoldrick, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said:  

“This administration has invested record amounts in our roads and pavements. That is why the quality of our residential roads has increased, and the number of reported potholes has gone down. 

“Our priority is delivering for residents which is why I am so pleased our investment in a new innovative maintenance process means we can extend the life of more footways at a lower cost and with less inconvenience to households.

“The fact that the work can be carried out by the Council’s own Highways team means they can be more reactive and adaptable. On top of that, it is much more environmentally friendly than traditional methods of resurfacing.”

(Picture: Reading Borough Council)