55 Vastern Road, Reading, RG1 8BU

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• The effect of the proposed development in design terms with particular reference to the quality and effectiveness of the proposed north-south link through the site and the setting and character of the River Thames and the Thames Path
• The effect of the proposed development on 55 Vastern Road, a non-designated heritage asset
• The effect of the proposed development on the natural environment with particular reference to marginal habitats and large canopy trees
• Whether it has been demonstrated that the proposal would be part of a comprehensive approach to the development of the Riverside sub-area of the Station/River Major Opportunity Area
• Other planning matters, including the benefits to be weighed in the planning balance

What decided it

The significant benefits of housing delivery and the strategic north-south pedestrian/cycle link were found to clearly outweigh the identified harms, including the loss of the locally listed building and the failure to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to the wider allocated site.

The significant weight given to housing delivery, the north-south link, and other public benefits was found to clearly outweigh the significant weight attached to the loss of the non-designated heritage asset and the failure to demonstrate a comprehensive approach, together with the modest weight given to the minor riverside setback breach.