THE UNIVERSITY of Reading has officially opened Swallows Meadow following a revamp of the space.
Earley and Woodley’s Member of Parliament Yuan Yang was joined by Wokingham MP Clive Jones in attending the official opening.
It comes after Mr Jones was part of championing the space wile he was leader of Wokingham Borough Council.
The green space, located near to Chatteris Way, is owned by the University of Reading and is a popular walking spot.
The university worked in partnership with Earley Environmental Group to install new signs and a gate, provide mown pathways to make the space more accessible, and preserve habitats for wildlife.
The event featured guided tours from Earley Environmental Group, as well as family-friendly activities and the opportunity to share ideas for future improvements.
The ribbon cutting was undertaken by Professor Robert Van de Noort, University of Reading Vice-Chancellor, and Cllr Mike Smith, Earley Mayor, who welcomed attendees and spoke about their enthusiasm for the space.
The University has said it will continue with ongoing maintenance of the site, including the mown pathways, and will work with Earley Environmental Group and Earley Town Council to identify further potential improvements.
It has also laid out plans to work with local schools to offer opportunities for young people to benefit from the enhanced green space.
Professor Robert Van de Noort said: “We are pleased to be able to share this green space with our neighbours. Modern life is busy and I know that access to natural surroundings in the open air such as this can be a vital resource for people’s wellbeing.
“I’d like to thank Earley Environmental Group for their efforts in helping us improve this space for people to enjoy and be among the wildlife.”
