Reading’s Minster Quarter Central seeking development partner

Published by

Sam Pither

Eddisons is seeking a development partner for Reading’s Minster Quarter Central on behalf of Reading Borough Council.

The 5.2 acre site was formerly the location of the civic centre offices before they were moved to Bridge Street in 2014. It is adjacent to Reading’s Hexagon and Broad Street Mall shopping centre, and close to the Oracle Centre.

One possible proposal for the site, subject to planning permission, would see the construction of residential units providing a mix of private accommodation, Build to Rent (BTR) and affordable housing, along with a 90 bed hotel, flexible working and conference facilities and an outdoor performance space.

A procurement launch event will be held at the Hexagon theatre on 14 September to introduce the development and to give prospective bidders an opportunity to meet council leaders.

In a statement announcing the search, Eddisons wrote: "The completed scheme will aspire to provide a unique character and sense of place as an inviting new gateway into the town centre from the west.

"The Council is looking for a development partner who understands and shares their vision for this strategically significant site and has a commitment to, and experience of, working successfully in partnership to achieve outstanding development quality and place-making."

Sam Pither

Sam is the Regional Editor of Biz News, responsible for both Hampshire and Dorset. A new recruit to journalism, Sam started writing for the Business Magazine as a freelancer in May of 2022 after completing his degree in English at University College London. His passion for local businesses and ability to tell a story soon caught the attention of the publication’s management team and have led to his meteoric rise. Sam, who lives in central Reading, takes a particular interest in technology, gaming and food and drink, having been a chef before starting his degree.