Traffic flow changes ahead of Reading station revamp

A major re-organisation of the traffic flow around Reading town centre to allow a £400m revamp of the railway station is to get under way.

Network Rail's improvements include five new platforms, an elevated railway and a new station entrance.

Station Approach - currently used by buses, taxis and bicycles - will shut to accommodate the larger structure, which is due to be remodelled by 2013.

The work, starting on 21 June, will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption.

Roads affected will include St Mary's Butts, West Street, Friar Street, Station Road, Blagrave Street, Valpy Street, Forbury Road and The Forbury.

A council spokesman said: "Substantial improvements, including wider pavements, re-surfaced roads and improved pedestrian crossing facilities, will form part of the scheme.

"The changes to the traffic system itself will not take place until the end of the project when all the correct infrastructure and facilities are in place."

The re-organisation project is scheduled to be completed by May 2011.

Residents can view the plans in detail at a drop-in centre in Cross Street.