Updated proposals for the introduction of improved cycle and pedestrian routes on Bath Road and Castle Hill corridor have been published for consultation by Reading Borough Council.

The Council has previously consulted on this scheme but it is now undertaking a new consultation after a review of the proposals following previous feedback from residents, and in consultation with councillors and stakeholders.

Key changes include extending the plans into the town centre to link with the existing cycle route on Cusden Walk, as well as revised plans for the Castle Hill-IDR roundabout, which will now see the cycle track follow the perimeter of the roundabout, rather than through the middle.

The scheme includes the introduction of dedicated cycle lanes, easier pedestrian and cycle access around the Castle Hill-IDR roundabout and a new pedestrian crossing at Coley Avenue.

The project is part of the Council’s active travel programme which aims to improve facilities for walking and cycling and to link up existing routes.

Proposed improvements to walking and cycling links along Bath Road and Castle Hill have previously been the subject of public consultation but the plans have now been reviewed, and the Council is once again inviting comments.

The new proposals include:

• New on-road cycle lanes in both directions along Bath Road and Castle Hill helping to link with existing Bath Road cycling provision
• Castle Hill approach westbound reduced from three to two lanes
• Improved cycle and pedestrian route around Castle Hill – IDR roundabout
• New staggered two-stage pedestrian crossing on Coley Avenue
• Light segregation of cycle lanes rather that stepped cycle track
• Extension of the route to link with Cusden Walk in the town centre.

Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said:

“This key route into and out of town is not currently easy for cyclists to negotiate and needs upgrading. It has taken some time and a lot of work behind the scenes to reach this stage, but we must make sure we put in the best possible scheme for cyclists, pedestrians and other road users.

“We want to remove barriers to cycling and make it a more attractive option for people travelling around Reading by making it quicker, more convenient and safer.

“This scheme will provide a missing link which would allow cyclists to travel to and from the town centre and across the IDR more safely.

(Picture: Reading Borough Council)