Reading to Inaugurate Third New Bus Lane This Weekend

Reading is set to inaugurate its third new bus lane this weekend. This new lane will be situated on the Oxford Road’s outbound carriageway, specifically between the intersections of Pangbourne Street and Norcot Road. Its opening will occur after resurfacing operations, which are scheduled nightly this week, concluding on Friday, November 1, from 19:00 to 02:00 GMT, between the junctions of Shaftesbury Road and Norcot Road. Reading Borough Council had previously approved a total of six bus lanes, which have drawn controversy, as part of a £26 million investment aimed at enhancing bus services. The council had previously stated that these bus lanes were intended to “cut congestion and improve the environment.” Regarding this specific new lane, the council has indicated that its creation involves a redesign of the highway, ensuring no reduction in road space for general traffic. Additionally, the westbound left-turn lane leading to Norcot Road has been lengthened to facilitate improved traffic flow at the roundabout. During the ongoing resurfacing work, diversion routes are active, and the bus lane is slated to become operational immediately following the completion of these works. This particular lane marks the second new bus lane to be introduced on Oxford Road. John Ennis, who serves as the lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, commented: “The busy Oxford Road is an integral part of Reading’s best-used bus route, the Purple 17, which runs between east and west Reading all day every day. “The introduction of these two new bus lanes will benefit many thousands of passengers whose journeys will now run more smoothly, as well as residents who live in and around the Oxford Road by reducing congestion and the health impacts of air pollution.” Reading’s initial new bus lane was implemented on London Road in August; however, some local residents have attributed increased congestion to its presence. Readers can find BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.