At last night’s Western Area Planning Committee, the decision was made to approve the application to turn the former Chestnut Walk care home back into use as temporary supported accommodation for local residents, including families and couples in housing need.

The building has stood vacant for several years and this approval means it can once again provide a positive benefit to the community. The accommodation will offer safe, managed and supportive temporary housing for West Berkshire residents while longer-term housing solutions are found.

As a Council, we have a responsibility to support people facing homelessness and housing difficulties. This project will help us provide accommodation closer to people’s support networks, services and communities, while reducing reliance on other forms of temporary accommodation.

We remain committed to managing the site responsibly and working closely with local residents and stakeholders as the project moves forward. Procurement for a main contractor is now being launched, with works expected to commence later this year.