Plans for 254 flats and riverside 'destination area'

The development is planned to replace the Norman Place office building located off Vastern Road

Developers want to knock down a disused office block to build 254 flats and create a riverside "destination area".

The plans being submitted to Reading Borough Council include a proposal to demolish Norman Place - located off Vastern Road - and open up more of the area to the public.

Packaged Living and the Bridges Fund Management said the plans included four seven-storey buildings to house the "high quality" apartments.

A CGI image of the project, named Waterfront Place, shows people enjoying themselves by the river, with a publicly accessible cafe at ground level.

The developers' idea is to open the Thames riverside up for more people enjoy the waterfront location

The developers have also pledged to plant 61 trees and have committed to maintaining the mature trees lining Vastern Road.

Mark Woodrow, chief operating officer of Packaged Living, said: "We propose to make this a valued and enjoyable public asset for the town - whether you are a resident in the development, a dog walker, a cyclist, or on your lunch break.

"We will create a place to pause, meet, relax, and enjoy."

Residents will have chance to view and comment on the proposals using the council's planning portal.