Lock Island  and King's Meadow Pool Development

Marketing Priniciples

The Council has agreed marketing details for the refurbishment of the Kings Meadow Swimming Pool and Caversham Lock Island, owned by the Environment Agency. The documents reflect advice from English Heritage as the pool is Grade II listed.

Plans for development and refurbishment will be subject to:

• the Caversham Lock Development Principles
• the Open Spaces Strategy

There are also constraints in terms of flooding and tree protection orders on mature trees.  

CADRA was formally consulted on the marketing proposals.

We supported the need to improve and refurbish the Lock Island and the pool, both of which are looking sad and neglected. We welcome the prospect of new riverside facilities for both local people and visitors.

We did express some detailed concerns on the implementation of the principles and have asked to be involved in the next stage of the process when viable offers are considered.

Developments are subject to the planning process which we will follow closely.

Alternate Plans for Consideration at Scrutiny Panel

Two alternative plans were considered:

1. King's Meadow Pool Campaign to refurbish the pool
2. Askett Hawk development of pool and Lock Island
   

Click here for CADRA's paper to the Panel on March 25th 2009.

On 28 September 2009 the Council’s Cabinet again considered the two competing proposals. The commercial bid for a hotel and bars had additional terms which were not acceptable to the Council including a 250 year lease. CADRA opposed this as it may have prejudiced the long term future of this sensitive area.

The Cabinet agreed to offer a period of two years exclusivity to the Kings Meadow Campaign, during which time they will need to submit a planning application and ensure a firm financial footing. No public funds will be available to them.

The Cabinet thanked CADRA for their detailed work and balanced perspective. We now await the actions of the Environment Agency to dispose of the Lock Island.