New bridge could tackle traffic in Reading

A new river crossing in Reading is back on the agenda after concerns were raised about traffic in the town.

Reading Buses chief executive James Freeman said roads in the Berkshire town were often jammed, especially on Thursday and Friday evenings.

Reading Borough Council was hoping to get government funding to tackle the problem, saying it could be used for a third bridge across the Thames.

The council is also considering altering traffic signals and junctions.

Reading Buses chief James Freeman said: "Areas like the Vastern Road roundabout are very prone to locking up.

"The fact that both bridges heading towards Caversham can get very congested indeed tends to knock back into the town network."

The council's planning and transport councillor Richard Willis said a meeting would be held in January to discuss bidding for funds "for a range of different things which might include a third bridge".

He said: "It is an old chestnut that keeps coming around but if we don't bid for it, we won't have the money and won't be able to do it."