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Is Beale park now only for privileged drivers?

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Unfortunately, since last year from 29th September 2014, the bus 133/132 operated by Thames Travel was withdrawn from service. Therefore, there is no longer a bus service to and from Beale Park.

Another ‘ridiculous’ decision to cancel the only bus route to Beale Park without explanation could compromise our safety, according to angry parents.

“I took my son to Beale Park in October 2014 to celebrate Halloween. The website says it’s 1.2 miles from Pangbourne station, two stops out of Reading on the Oxford line. And the entrance is indeed 1.2 miles from the station. The walk from the station is along an idyllic country road marred only by the 50mph speed limit and the 60-70mph trucks whizzing by.

The driveway of the place is so long, probably a mile, so by the time we arrived my 3 years old child was quite tired and fell asleep in the cafe.”  Two faults here: Beale Park, for not making their amazing facilities accessible via a path to cut through from the road, and the Council, for cutting a bus service that bought you at least to the existing path.

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For the privileged parents who drive, Beale Park is lovely place to spend this lovely summer days.

Beale Park Wildlife Park and Gardens provides a great day out for young and old with adventure, fun, animals, gardens, and activities on the banks of the picturesque River Thames.

The park is home to a diverse collection of animals, including meerkats, wallabies, raccoons, prairie dogs, monkeys, goats and numerous small mammals in the Pet’s Corner.

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Cheapest petrol and diesel in Reading this week!

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Here are the current lowest petrol and diesel prices in Reading as of today, Wednesday, March 27th.

Fuel prices are on the rise nationwide, and for many drivers, refueling is an unavoidable expense essential for daily life. However, prices can vary between different fuel stations, making it important to seek out the best deals locally.

UNLEADED
Applegreen Reading (Lower Earley service station)141.8p per litre
Morrisons, Reading142.7p per litre
Asda, Lower Earley142.7p per litre
Tesco Reading Extra142.9p per litre
Tesco Reading West Extra142.9p per litre
Sainsburys, Calcot142.9p per litre
DIESEL
Sainsburys, Calcot150.9p per litre
Applegreen Reading (Lower Earley service station)151.8p per litre
Tesco Reading Extra151.9p per litre
Tesco Reading West Extra151.9p per litre
Morrisons, Reading152.7p per litre
Asda, Lower Earley152.7p per litre

This information was gathered using data from Petrolprices, that has been recommended to drivers by Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis.

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Rivermead Leisure Centre’s pools opening this summer

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Residents of Reading are well acquainted with the unpredictability surrounding project timelines under the administration of Reading Borough Council. Nevertheless, it has recently been announced that preparations are underway to fill the newly constructed swimming pools at Rivermead Leisure Centre in Reading, Berkshire, marking a significant step forward in the enhancement of local leisure amenities.

The ambitious endeavor is projected to span a 12-day period, during which approximately 1,700,000 liters of water will be introduced into the pools, laying the groundwork for an immersive aquatic experience for visitors.

Rivermead Leisure Centre, which unveiled its gym, studios, and soft play area to the public in July 2023, is now gearing up to further enrich its offerings with the imminent opening of the 25-meter main pool, a dedicated teaching and diving pool, and the exciting addition of a new splash pad, all set to be available for use during the upcoming summer season, as confirmed by the Reading Borough Council.

Enhancing the spectator experience, the facility boasts two seating areas capable of accommodating over 250 individuals, reflecting the council’s commitment to fostering community engagement through a £40 million investment in leisure infrastructure.

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While the leisure center is under the ownership of the council, operational responsibilities rest with Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL), operating under the Better brand, ensuring seamless management and service delivery.

Distinguished by its versatility, the primary eight-lane swimming pool features a partially movable floor, facilitating adjustments from poolside level to a depth of 1.8 meters (5.9 feet), catering to a diverse array of activities ranging from rehabilitative exercises to dynamic water aerobics.

Complementing this flagship pool is its counterpart, specially designated for instructional purposes, complete with a dive tower and springboard, promising an enriching aquatic education experience for learners of all ages.

Even as sections of the leisure center are already operational, including the well-appointed gymnasium, forthcoming amenities such as an accessible Changing Places room, equipped with a hoist, underscore the commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all members of the community.

Adele Barnett-Ward, overseeing leisure and cultural initiatives at Reading Borough Council, expressed anticipation regarding the impending public unveiling of the pools, emphasizing their pivotal role in promoting health and well-being within the community. She further highlighted the anticipated appeal of the splash pad, envisioned as a focal point for family recreation and enjoyment.

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Symbolizing a moment of communal celebration, children from Oxford Road Community School congregated at the center to witness the inaugural flow of water into the expansive eight-lane pool, heralding a new era of aquatic leisure and recreation in Reading.

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Two chess boards have been installed in Prospect Park

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Two Berkshire parks, Prospect Park and Palmer Park in Reading, have recently been enhanced with concrete chess tables, designed to promote outdoor social interaction. These tables, complete with two-seater benches, create an inviting space for chess enthusiasts to gather and play.

The Reading Borough Council has facilitated this initiative, allowing individuals to bring their own chess sets or borrow one for a small deposit. In anticipation of the Reading Chess Club’s upcoming 125th anniversary, plans are underway to host tournaments at these tables during the summer season. David Deane, the club’s president, has expressed enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a “fantastic initiative.”

Funding for this outdoor recreation endeavor was sourced from Levelling Up and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds. Adele Barnett-Ward, responsible for leisure and culture at the council, highlighted the deliberate choice of Prospect Park and Palmer Park, recognizing them as vital community hubs. She believes that these chess tables have the potential to foster social inclusivity and combat isolation within the local communities, offering a free and accessible activity suitable for individuals of all ages.

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