Rough sleeper accommodation extension at Abattoirs Road, Reading

“Planning Applications Committee 09 September 2026 Title PLANNING APPLICATION REPORT Ward Abbey Planning Application Reference: PL/26/ 0958/FUL Site Address: Abattoirs Road, RG1 7BL Proposed Development Extension of the temporary planning permission, as approved under PL/21/1010, for the now constructed and fully operational 40 no. sleeping units and 3 no. support units for rough sleepers until 31st March 2028.”

“1.EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 .1 The proposal is for the continued use of the existing temporary rough sleeper pods and support services, which were granted permission in September 2021 for a period of 5 years 1.2 An extension of time for the siting of the pods until the end of March 2028 is sought to allow for a managed and coordinated cessation of the use, including the relocation of residents into more permanent accommodation and the preparation of the site for future…”

“In addition, there are welfare office pods, a laundry and switch room, staff car parking, landscaping, seating, bin and cycle storage. There are two secure access points – one to the eastern boundary on Caversham Road and one to the north on Abattoirs Road. The development of the site for temporary pods arose from the Government’s response to Covid-19 ‘Everyone in’ requiring local authorities to house all rough sleepers and those at risk of rough sleeping.”

“PL/19/1384/REG3 - Demolition of existing outbuildings and the provision of a new public car park with access required from Abattoirs Road with egress on to Great Knollys Street, Reading –Withdrawn 18 th November 2021”

“PL/21/1010/REG3 - Retrospective application for the erection of 40no. sleeping units and3no. support units for rough sleepers, to be used temporarily for a period of 5 years – Approved 17 th September 2021”

“The ongoing use for rough sleeper pods as move-on accommodation and on-site support, until suitable next-step housing becomes available, continues to be supported by National Policy in terms of contributing towards supporting the social objective of sustainable development (Para 17.) by supporting “strong, vibrant and healthy communities ....and communities’ health, social and cultural well- being…”

“The proposal accords with the aims and priorities set out within the Council’s Housing Strategy and, Preventing Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy by providing suitable accommodation to meet ongoing need until long term accommodation can be sourced.”

“A verbal update was given at the meeting explaining that two public consultation responses had been received by the 8 September 2026 consultation deadline, but not in time for officers to review the comments, discuss with appropriate parties and provide a full assessment for the Committee’s consideration. It was therefore recommended that consideration of the application be deferred until the next meeting.”

“That consideration of application PL/26/0958 (FUL) be deferred to allow officers to assess the consultation responses.”