Reading Borough Council is seeking a development partner for a major mixed-use regeneration project in the Berkshire town.
Eddisons has launched a tender process for the 5.2-acre development, known as Minster Quarter Central, on behalf of the council.
The council’s concept scheme for Minster Quarter Central proposes residential, commercial and retail space. There is scope for a mix of private accommodation, build-to-rent and affordable housing, a 90-bedroom hotel, flexible working and conference facilities and outdoor performance space.
Subject to planning, the scheme would be delivered over two phases, with the first phase benefiting from the council’s successful £2m bid for a Brownfield Land Release Fund grant for enabling works.
The site is adjacent to the Hexagon Theatre and is the former home of Reading’s Civic Centre offices. The opportunity comprises council-owned land between Hosier Street, Queen’s Walk and Castle Street, including a car park and surrounding public realm.
The council said it hopes to create a landmark mixed-use destination with affordable housing across a mix of tenures, as well as a commercial, arts and cultural offer that will “reinvigorate the public realm and breathe new life into this area of town”.
Other key objectives include high-quality public realm and zero-carbon development.
Significant regeneration is planned for the area over the coming years, with around 600 flats proposed on surrounding sites outside of the council’s ownership, as well as scope for significant investment in the theatre in the next few years.
Jason Brock, leader of Reading Council, said: “We are seeking a development partner who understands and shares our vision for this strategically significant site and has a commitment to, and experience of, working successfully in partnership to achieve outstanding development quality and placemaking.
“This development brings huge potential in the form of new jobs and opportunities for local people, which sits alongside this council’s ethos of ensuring everybody in the town can share in Reading’s success.”
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