HISTORIC paths in Reading could be re-instated in a bid to get people moving.
More than 200 residents told Reading Borough Council their views on public rights of way, in a recent consultation.
The results showed that 68% have been using paths to walk more regularly in the pandemic, but around half were deterred from them due to path conditions, anti-social behaviour and lack of information on the routes.
There were also concerns that some historic paths that had been lost, including one in the former BBC Monitoring Site at Caversham Park.
This is currently off-limits to the public and proposed for redevelopment, but the council said that options will be explored to claim or re-instate routes.
Cllr Tony Page, the borough council’s lead for environment, planning and transport, said: “We know there is a great deal of local support for providing public access to this beautiful parkland. Several people responded saying they believe this site has historic paths that need to be re-instated and I’m pleased to say, have also provided some information relating to these claims.”
He added: “There is much work to be done. We have until 2026 to include historic footpaths in our network, after which time they will be lost permanently.”
Cllr Page said that residents have also helped flag any issues with the current walking and cycling network.
“Your input will help us protect, maintain and enhance the public rights of way across our borough,” he said. “Many of the footpaths are key routes connecting people to destinations such as the town centre, Reading Station, Green Park and Thames Valley Business Park. They are used by people travelling to work and school, as well as many rural-type routes that are used for leisure.”
The consultation results will be considered as the council updates its Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan.
