A MAJOR refurbishment of a community space in Whitley has been completed following hundreds of thousands in funding was invested.
Work to overhaul Whitley Wood Pavilion by the Reading Borough Council is now finished, which was aimed at creating a high‑quality home for local sport and neighbourhood activities for many years to come.
Upgrades to the site have included a brand-new roof, an upgraded heating system, a redesigned internal layout to better meet people’s needs, and a series of general building improvements to enhance accessibility, comfort, and long-term sustainability.
The £311,000 improvement project was funded through a combination of a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant of £176,000 and £137,000 from Section 106 developer contributions.
It means Whitley Wood Pavilion will now continue to serve as the home of South Reading Football Club (SRFC), strengthening its role as a key hub for grassroots sport in the community.
Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said “I hope residents who are regular users of Whitley Wood Pavilion are as delighted as we are following the significant investment and improvements that have been made.
“The work will ensure this vital community facility is fit for the future and able to support local sport, clubs, and residents for many years to come. The project demonstrates our commitment to providing high‑quality local amenities, and we are pleased to have delivered it with UKSPF funding and contributions secured through the planning systems when local developments are approved.”
Chris Evans, South Reading FC President said: “Whitley Wood Recreation Pavilion has been the home of South Reading FC for over 15 years and has been a place that our South Reading community can attend from our soccer school starting at 4 years old to our walking football teams over 60’s.
“We are fantastically thrilled with the improvements. The refurbished pavilion will make a massive difference to our players, coaches, supporters and our South Reading community, and it means we can continue growing the club and supporting football for all in the local South Reading community.
“We are extremely grateful to Reading Borough Council for the investment and the care taken to create a welcoming, modern facility for many a year for the South Reading Community.”
