Temporary library security hoarding at Reading Central Library, Reading

“Title PLANNING APPLICATIONS REPORT Ward Abbey Planning Application Reference: PL/26/0785 FUL Site Address: Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading Proposed Development Installation of temporary security hoarding, mesh screens and associated security measures to the Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, to secure the vacant building against unauthorised access, vandalism and anti-social behaviour pending determination of its future use.”

“Full planning permission is sought for the proposed scheme for securing the site to prevent unauthorised access. The scheme includes internal metal mesh for all windows facing Kings Road, and external metal mesh screens for windows and external doors at the rear. Timber hoarding is proposed to enclose the canopy entrance on Kings Road. Access is to be retained along the Holy Brook at the rear of the site.”

“The report considers the application for full planning permission for installation of security hoarding at the now vacant Reading Central Library on Kings Road/Abbey Square. The design has been designed to minimise the impact on the street scene and the works fall under permitted development. The application is recommended for approval.”

“The application site comprises the recently vacated Reading Central Library on Kings Road/Abbey Square. The property is located in the central core, immediately to the east of the Market Place/London Street Conservation Area. The Holy Brook runs underneath the building and falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3.”

“Information submitted on 7 July 2026: • 1183-03-10 R2 Ground and First Floor Proposed Plan • 1183-05-10 R2 Partial Elevations as Proposed For Hoarding 1 • 1183-05-11 R2 Partial Elevations as Proposed For Hoarding 2 4. Relevant Planning History 4.1 PL/89/0720 – A pair of signboards fixed back to back projecting from building on Kings Road elevation. Application refused on 4 May 1989. Consultations 5.1 No internal consultees.”

“2x site notices were displayed, one at the front of the site and the other at the rear, on 18 June 2026 in the public interest.”

“No letters of representation were received.”

“At the meeting it was requested that Ward Councillors would be informally consulted regarding the scheme for decorative artwork for the security hoardings but that this did not necessitate a formal condition.”

“(1) That, pursuant to Regulation 3 of the Town and Country Planning General Regulations 1992, the carrying out of the development PL/26/0785 (FUL/REG3) be authorised, subject to the conditions and informatives as recommended in the report;”

“(2) That the scheme for decorative artwork for the security hoardings be approved in consultation with Ward Councillors.”