Planning secured for residential-led regeneration of Broad Street Mall

In close collaboration with McLaren Living and Reading Borough Council, we’re reimagining the former 1970s shopping centre and car park as a dynamic new neighbourhood - one that blends modern living with vibrant public life.

The development will bring forward 643 new homes, thoughtfully designed to meet a wide range of needs, from one, two and three-bedroom apartments. These homes will offer more people the opportunity to live centrally and be part of a growing, thriving community.

Adding life and energy to the surrounding streets, the new homes will sit alongside improved public realm, new pedestrian routes, upgraded landscaping and active ground-floor frontages.

The homes will be spread across four striking buildings, ranging in height from nine to 30-storeys, with each element carefully arranged to create a sense of openness and variety.

Every decision has been made with placemaking in mind. From the integration of communal spaces designed to encourage social connection, to the revitalised retail offering that will support both new residents and the wider community.

We were appointed to take over the design after previous proposals were considered unfeasible by the client. Our approved proposals not only align with the extant planning consent’s key principles but will also improve the housing quality and urban design, contributing to a more inclusive and welcoming development.

Our project case study delves into design development, how stakeholder engagement played a key role and how placemaking remains at the heart.

Read more here

With planning approval now secured, we’re excited to move forward in bringing this bold, people-first vision for Reading to life, shaping a neighbourhood that reflects the town’s future, while supporting the people and communities who make it what it is.

Discover more about how our designs are providing comfortable homes for all here.