READING Borough Council has launched its consultation on proposals for six new bus lanes intended to speed up bus journeys in the town.
The plans come as part of a £26 million investment in the bus services, through which the council aims to attract more passengers to public transport.
Proposals were first put to the public during an informal consultation in the summer, where residents’ feedback was considered ahead of formal consultation.
They would see further bus lanes established on Oxford Road, with one running outbound between Zinzan Street and George Street, and one outbound between Pangbourne Street and Norcot Junction.
London Road would also see two new bus lanes, with plans for an inbound bus lane between Sidmouth Street and London Street and an inbound lane between Liverpool Road and Cemetery Junction.
Bath Road would see an outbound bus lane established between Circuit Lane and Granville Road.
Southampton Street would also see a new bus lane established inbound between Pell Street and The Oracle Roundabout.
The Bus Service Improvement Plan, of which the proposals are part, includes the launch of Tap On Tap Off payment methods on Reading Buses services last week, the introduction of the Reading All-Bus ticket, and a £3 fare cap.
Further proposals include the extension of bus services in South Reading, improvements to Park and Ride services, and continued development of the South Reading MRT scheme on the A33.
Residents can have their say via the council’s online consultation on the Reading Borough Council Website.
Cllr John Ennis, lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, said: ”
“Reading already has an extensive and well-used bus network which provides vital access to opportunities such as education, training, employment and essential services, such as healthcare, as well as for leisure.”
“However, bus services can suffer from delays due to traffic congestion, particularly at peak times. The creation of bus priority measures on key routes aims to make travelling by bus quicker and more reliable and therefore a more attractive option for getting around town.
He explained: “More people choosing to travel by bus will result in reduced carbon emissions, better air quality and improved health and wellbeing – tying in with our vision of a net zero carbon Reading by 2030.
“We recognise that limited road space in Reading means these plans will have a potential impact on traffic flows and will require careful traffic modelling and design which is why we are keen to hear the views of as many people as possible during this consultation.”
Ben Blackmore, Chairman of the Reading West and Mid Berkshires Conservative Association, said: “Following a summer during which the two major western arteries of Reading were cut off due to roadworks, leading to misery for travellers, the Labour-led Reading Council has been busy taking notes.
“Its plan is to reduce car trips to and through the town centre to 10 percent from its current 25.4 percent.”
He continued: “To achieve this aim, the council has decided to impose punitive measures on motorists.
“Fearing the political backlash of introducing ULEZ or congestion charges, Labour councillors have instead opted for a plan to restrict access to Reading via the ever-increasing rollout of bus lanes.”
He explained: “Fundamentally, the council is invoking monopolistic powers to eliminate its competition–Reading Transport Limited (which operates Reading buses) is wholly owned by Reading Council.
“The corporation required a £5 million bailout from the government to remain afloat last year due to a 37% reduction in demand compared to 2019.
“So, the council’s prerogative is clear. Instead of creating a competitive alternative to the car, it will prioritize its commercial interests and simply limit your choices.”
Tilehurst Cllr James Moore, of the Liberal Democrats, said: “As Reading Borough Council have declared a climate emergency, I support increased support for bus infrastructure.
“However, I have concerns about both the Oxford Road and London Road plans – but at this point they are just plans and I hope all residents will make their views heard by taking part in the transport strategy consultation so officers at the Council and Councillors can be more informed about what changes may need to be made to such plans.”
In-person drop-in sessions are taking place in libraries around Reading during the next two weeks.
These include Battle Library, Oxford Road, between 1-7pm, on Tuesday, November 14; Reading Town Hall from 1-6pm on Wednesday, November 15; and Caversham Library, Church Street, between 1-7pm on Thursday, November 16.
Further sessions take place in Whitley Library, Northumberland Avenue, from 1-7pm on Tuesday, November 21, and Palmer Park Library, St Bartholomew’s Road, from 1-4pm on Thursday, November 23.
Residents can take part in the consultation via: consult.reading.gov.uk
