THE NEXT phase of a scheme to improve public travel around Reading is set to begin next week.
Reading Borough Council has announced that the fifth phase of its South Reading Rapid Transit scheme, an ongoing project to improve and expedite public transport.
More bus lanes and bus stops are set to be created on the A33 relief road, alongside a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Kennet.
Improvements are also set to be made around Rose Kiln Lane’s north junction, including new bus lanes which will link to the existing lane, as well as additional stops.
Work is set to begin on Monday, March 18, and will take place during off-peak hours, which will see lane closures, and overnight works, which will see full road closures.
Works are expected to conclude by spring 2025.
Previous phases of the scheme have seen improvements and measures implemented on the A33 relief road between Mereoak Park and Ride and the town centre.
Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said: “The latest phase of the South Reading Bus Rapid Transit scheme is another step towards providing a seamless link between Mereoak Park and Ride and Reading town centre.
“The sections of the project are linking up to provide even quicker and more reliable journeys for passengers travelling between south Reading and the town, and they are great value.
“We have already seen passenger numbers rocket thanks to the South Reading BRT project and this latest phase will make bus services along this corridor even more attractive.”
He added: “I look forward to working with neighbouring local authorities to be able to provide similar park and ride routes for visitors coming into Reading from all directions.
“There will inevitably be some disruption while the work is carried out and I thank road users in advance for their patience.”
