John Lewis’ proposal to develop rental homes in Reading faces police scrutiny.
- Thames Valley Police highlighted potential risks of antisocial behaviour.
- A public garden in the proposal is seen as a concern for local law enforcement.
- The police’s feedback follows other challenges faced by John Lewis’ housing projects.
- John Lewis affirms their commitment to community safety and wellbeing.
John Lewis is facing scrutiny from Thames Valley Police regarding its plans to transform a former warehouse site in Reading into 215 new rental homes. The £80 million development proposal has raised significant concerns due to potential risks associated with its layout. These include threats of graffiti, antisocial behaviour, and inappropriate loitering. Such issues have been prevalent in similar spaces within the area, as noted in a police submission to Reading Council.
The project’s design features, particularly a neighbourhood garden intended for public access, have been flagged as susceptible to attracting undesirable use. Local police have recommended revisions to the development’s design to mitigate these risks, pointing to similar spaces that have experienced issues.
This feedback forms part of a series of challenges encountered by John Lewis in its residential development ventures. In July, a 353-flat project in Bromley received approval despite opposition, while a separate project in West Ealing faced delays, prompting the company to appeal for a quicker decision.
According to a spokesperson for John Lewis Partnership, the planning application is subject to feedback from a range of stakeholders, which is a valuable component of their consultation process. They emphasize that the planned build-to-rent community will be overseen by a dedicated 24/7 operational team, enhancing on-site security and aiming to foster community wellbeing.
The police’s concerns illustrate the ongoing challenges John Lewis faces in its efforts to expand housing developments.
