A petition has been launched to make an underpass safer for pedestrians and cyclists in Reading.
‘The Biscuit Tunnel’ is an underpass that links Kenavon Drive with Luscinia View, running under eight railway tracks.
David Clarke, the newly elected Green Party councillor for Thames ward, has launched a petition calling on Reading Borough Council and Network Rail to work together to improve the Biscuit Tunnel and address long-standing concerns about its condition and safety.
The tunnel was once used to transport biscuits from the historic Huntley & Palmers factory, was reopened in 2015 as a walking and cycling route. It provides an important connection for residents, commuters and visitors travelling between east Reading and the town centre.
However, residents have raised concerns that the tunnel has fallen into disrepair.
Issues including dog fouling, litter, graffiti, inadequate lighting, flooding and non-functioning CCTV have affected the experience of those who use the tunnel, with many expressing concerns about safety.
The petition calls on theouncil and Network Rail to work together to deliver a programme of improvements, including:
– Clearing dog fouling and litter, removing weeds, and cutting back overgrown vegetation in and around the tunnel.
– Removing graffiti and exploring the creation of a mural celebrating the tunnel’s unique industrial heritage.
– Improving lighting around the tunnel.
– Restoring the tunnel’s CCTV system.
– Addressing the annual flooding that regularly makes the tunnel impassable.
Filling the small recessed area at the western (Napier Road) entrance, which residents have identified as a safety concern.
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 demonstrate strong public support for investment in the tunnel and encourage both the council and Network Rail to work together to deliver lasting improvements.
Residents are encouraged to sign the petition and share it with friends, neighbours and local organisations to help build support for the campaign.
