A NEW path has been opened up for pedestrians and cyclists on Portman Road following work by Reading Borough Council.
It now means that there is a proper travel route between Beresford Road and the new residential development close to the Tesco superstore.
While an informal path existed along the same section of the road, the new 140m-long path will improve accessibility on the route.
It is an extension of the existing shared path on the south side of Portman Road and is part of a wider strategy to improve links to River Academy school and Rivermead Leisure Centre.
It comes as a result of contributions from the new residential development, through the Section 106 development stipulation, as well as through government Active Travel Funding.
The next stage of development will see a crossing installed to connect the new shared path with the north side of Portman Road and onwards to Richfield Avenue.
It comes as part of a programme of works being delivered and funded by the Council, and S106 contributions, to install dropped kerb crossings to improve accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said: “I am sure the new shared path along Portman Road will be very welcome and well-used by residents.
“This project is a great example of the Council using developer contributions to improve the local infrastructure for residents and linking up with other schemes to see better connected pedestrian and cycle routes.
“The Buzz 18, commissioned by the Council, also provides a great service connecting residents in the Portman Road area with Tilehurst station in one direction and River Academy, Rivermead Leisure Centre, Caversham and Reading town centre in the other.
“These initiatives all support the Council’s aim to encourage active travel and greater use of public transport and reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and benefit the health of residents.”
