A new planning application for the redevelopment of Broad Street Mall has been submitted to Reading Borough Council by McLaren Living, the specialist national developer with a focus on the build-to-rent market. The new plans build upon the previous consent and will bring forward an enhanced scheme, delivering a reinvigorated and vibrant neighbourhood.
The proposals will see the redevelopment of the southern part of the 4.6-acre site to include over 600 ‘tenure-blind’ market and affordable build-to-rent homes, circa 15,000 sq ft of commercial space comprising office, retail and leisure uses, a vibrant public realm and improvements to Broad Street Mall.
The three residential buildings will be strategically positioned to the south of Broad Street Mall, tracing the Dusseldorf Way link between the Hexagon and the Minster and integrating into the wider Minster Quarter masterplan.
CARBON FOOTPRINT
The proposed development will aim to achieve a high level of environmental performance to minimise its carbon footprint. The buildings will incorporate the use of photovoltaics and air-source heat pumps and each apartment will achieve a minimum EPC rating of B. The development is also seeking to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating in relation to the non-residential parts of the buildings.
The revised masterplan for the redevelopment of Broad Street Mall, designed by AHR Architects, which has been subject to substantial pre-application engagement, will create a landmark destination for the town, one which celebrates the 20th Century heritage of the urban quarter and reinforces its identity as an arts and culture destination, while aligning with Reading’s 2050 vision and providing a blueprint for placemaking centred around smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
Oliver Westray, McLaren LivingOliver Westray, Development Director of McLaren Living, says: “Our new plans focus on regenerating Broad Street Mall and delivering an enhanced and reinvigorated mixed-use neighbourhood, one which will deliver on the council’s plans for the area and align with its vision for the town.
“We’ve sought to create a renewed and vibrant retail and residential destination, one that will be resilient and sustainable and support the local economy.
“We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with Reading Borough Council to deliver our vision for the transformation of Broad Street Mall.”
Since a previous consent was granted for the site, McLaren Living has sought to update the plans and the new development reflects the latest policy and legislative standards and market needs, including long-term commercial viability and active street frontages, while still delivering a scheme that integrates with the emerging Minster Quarter redevelopment, enabling rejuvenation of the wider town centre in line with the Council’s aspirations.
