Reading scaffolding collapse: Three hurt and more feared trapped at Lincoln MGT

Firefighters are hunting for people feared trapped under collapsed scaffolding at an old shopping centre. The structure fell down around 11:15am in Garrard Street, Reading, injuring at least three people. A spokesperson from Station Hill, commented: “At approximately 11.30 yesterday morning, a portion of the scaffolding collapsed on the road by the Station Hill demolition site. We can confirm that the Health and Safety Executive has been on site. There have been no fatalities or life-threatening injuries. The team has been working to ensure the area is safe and to clear the road.” The derelict mall is being demolished as part of a £750m housing and retail development at Station Hill in Reading. Lincoln MGT – a joint venture partnership between Texas-based Lincoln Property Company and London-headquartered MGT Investment Management – bought the site in June. The company said at the time it had “worked hard with Reading Borough Council to develop a renewed vision for Station Hill”. The first phase of its plans now focuses mainly on housing. As well as housing, the firm plans to offer around 25,000 sq ft of commercial and leisure accommodation. The project previously had consent for 930,000 sq ft of offices, 150,000 sq ft of retail and around 475 flats. Lincoln MGT did not respond to requests for comment.