Reading: Up to 1,000 homes approved after planning reversal

Developer Aviva wants to build high-rise flats near Reading railway station

The government has approved plans to build business premises and up to 1,000 homes on a retail park, overturning a planning inspector's recommendation.

Finance firm Aviva applied in 2020 to redevelop The Station Shopping Park in Reading, Berkshire.

The inspector recommended refusal following a public inquiry, saying the development would harm the landscape.

However, Communities Secretary Michael Gove said the proposed high-rise buildings were acceptable.

He said the scheme would deliver "significant economic benefits" as well as housing.

The Station Shopping Park currently houses low-rise retail outlets

The site on Vastern Road is currently occupied by low-rise shops and a restaurant.

Aviva applied for outline permission for buildings up to 75m (245ft) tall, including 600 to 1,000 homes, offices and retail space.

Reading Borough Council, which failed to determine the application, said in 2022 the buildings would be "bulky" and "over-dominant".

Planning inspector Susan Heywood agreed, saying there would be "significant harm caused to the character and appearance of the surroundings".

However, Mr Gove said the development "would not have the effect of diminishing the townscape benefits of the tall buildings cluster".

Aviva is expected to submit more detailed plans to the council in due course.

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