Reading mall to get BTR makeover

McLaren Living has submitted fresh plans to transform Broad Street Mall in Reading, Berkshire, into build-to-rent flats. The new plans, designed by AHR Architects, build on the previous consent and will see the redevelopment of the southern part of the 4.6-acre site to include more than 600 “tenure-blind” market and affordable build-to-rent homes and 15,000 sq ft of commercial space comprising office, retail and leisure uses. The GDV of the scheme is estimated to be £260m. The three residential buildings will be strategically positioned to the south of Broad Street Mall, tracing the Dusseldorf Way link between the Hexagon and the Minster and integrating into the wider Minster Quarter masterplan. The proposed development will aim to achieve a high level of environmental performance to minimise its carbon footprint. The buildings will incorporate the use of photovoltaics and air-source heat pumps and each flat will achieve a minimum EPC rating of B. The development is also seeking to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating in relation to the non-residential parts of the buildings. Oliver Westray, development director at McLaren Living, said: “Our new plans focus on regenerating Broad Street Mall and delivering an enhanced and reinvigorated mixed-use neighbourhood, one which will deliver on the council’s plans for the area and align with its vision for the town. “We have sought to create a renewed and vibrant retail and residential destination, one that will be resilient and sustainable and support the local economy.” Image © AHR Architects