 Plans submitted for 21 new affordable homes
A transformative new housing development is set to be built in Wokingham town centre, providing 21 high-quality, affordable homes for residents.
This major development represents a significant investment in affordable housing, which will be near the junction with Wellington Road and Station Road.
The site, previously earmarked for office use, has been reallocated for residential development in our emerging Local Plan due to a surplus of office space and a growing need for affordable housing. Town centre sites are particularly needed so residents can access services easily.
We're proposing that all 21 homes be provided as affordable housing, which far exceeds the 30 per cent minimum typically required. Most will be one-bed flats, with a few two-bed properties.
They’ll all be social rented and managed by us, and will be allocated to priority groups in line with our housing need policies.
 Junction overhaul in line for national award
Our transformation of California Crossroads in Finchampstead has been praised by experts for improving its surroundings and making the area safer.
We resurfaced the junction with raised "table" crossing points on all four approaches, plus a colourful leaf pattern on the carriageway.
We also improved pedestrian access to the shops and Nine Mile Ride Primary School, and worked under the road to tackle a long-standing drainage issue.
The project was identified as part of the infrastructure alongside new housing at the former Arborfield Garrison, and developers were required to fund it.
A study has shown that pedestrians can now cross the road in less time and drivers give way more often, especially on the central crossing.
 Save money with tax-free childcare
Working families could save up to £2,000 a year per child, or £4,000 if your child is disabled, through the government’s Tax-Free Childcare scheme.
You can use it to help pay for childcare at eligible settings, including nurseries, registered childminders, holiday clubs and before or after-school care.
For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2, up to £500 every three months, or £1,000 if your child is disabled. You can use the money straight away or save it for when you need it. Any unused funds can be withdrawn.
To be eligible, you must:
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Have a child aged 11 or under (or 16 if disabled)
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Earn at least the National Minimum or Living Wage for 16 hours a week on average
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Earn less than £100,000 per year (each parent)
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Not receive Universal Credit or childcare vouchers
Tax-Free Childcare can also be used alongside free childcare hours, if eligible.
 Swallowfield Show returns for bank holiday weekend
The Swallowfield Show takes place on 24 and 25 August, from 10am to 5.30pm each day.
More than 8,000 people attended this family favourite last year, with arena performances, live music, stalls, dog show, classic vehicle displays and more.
The event takes place at Swallowfield Park (RG7 1TH), with free parking on site.
Buy your tickets in advance for the event, which is run by volunteers and members of the Swallowfield Horticultural Society for the benefit of the community and to raise funds for local charities.
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