News

Reading’s new rainbow Pride crossing divides opinion

Published

2 years ago

June 22, 2023

admin

The introduction of Reading’s new rainbow crossing has sparked a division of opinion among residents. While some individuals welcomed the celebration of inclusivity that the crossing represents, others criticized it as a “waste of money.”

To commemorate Pride month and prepare for the upcoming Pride in Reading event scheduled for September 2, the rainbow crossing in Friar Street, a symbol of pride and inclusivity, has undergone a vibrant repaint. This iconic crossing has been transformed to celebrate diversity and convey a powerful message of inclusivity within the county. The repainting serves as a visual representation of Reading’s commitment to embracing and supporting its LGBTQ+ community.

However, many Reading residents expressed their opposition to the decision, particularly regarding the expenditure involved. Numerous comments flooded social media after the council’s announcement, showcasing a range of strong opinions. Critics argued that the funds could have been better allocated to essential services or used to address road-safety concerns, such as potholes and other infrastructure issues.

On the other hand, some residents appreciated the colorful and symbolic nature of the rainbow crossing, considering it a positive step towards promoting equality and diversity. They expressed support for Reading County Council’s efforts in embracing inclusivity.

Amidst the mixed reactions, alternative suggestions were put forward, such as using banners in shopping centers or on lamp posts to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in a different, potentially safer manner.

Reading West opinion shared the view that it is commendable for Reading Borough Council to promote equality and diversity through initiatives like the rainbow crossing.

Overall, the introduction of the rainbow crossing in Reading has generated a range of opinions, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the allocation of funds and the different perspectives on how best to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community.

News

OLLY MURS plays READING – Palmer Park on Friday 13th June 2025!

Published

6 days ago

April 11, 2025

admin

Olly Murs fans, buckle up! The Palmer Park Summer Series is delighted to announce Olly Murs Live in Palmer Park, Reading on Friday 13th June 2025.

It’s 15 years since Olly exploded onto our screens, yet he is still more determined than ever about what’s next. With 7 successful albums, 5 of them reaching no.1, in excess of 2 million tour tickets sold, 7.6M monthly Spotify listeners & a combined following of over 27M across social media, Olly has so far had an incredible career as a singer, songwriter & TV personality.

2024 was also a busy year with Olly working 44 dates touring with Take That & finishing off the summer with a run of his own headliner gigs. Having just announced a summer tour in 2025,
Olly has another action-packed year ahead of him & will be celebrating his 15-year anniversary gigging all the hits as he travels down the road to Reading, Palmer Park with Legacy Live on Friday 13th June.

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate 15 fantastic years of Olly Murs in Reading! Book your tickets now at www.legacylive.co Limited Tickets Available!

News

Host a Street Party This Summer – Apply Now for Free Road Closures in Reading

Published

2 weeks ago

April 4, 2025

admin

People are being encouraged to bring communities together this summer by holding their own street parties as part of The Big Lunch 2025.

This year’s celebrations are particularly significant, as they coincide with the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day – a special opportunity to come together with neighbours in both celebration and commemoration.

Free Road Closures for Summer 2025 Street Parties

Reading Borough Council is once again supporting local events by covering the cost of road closure fees for street parties on any of the following weekends:

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 June – The Big Lunch Weekend
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 June – Armed Forces Day
Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 July
Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 July

How to Apply

To host a street party, residents must apply by Monday 21 April 2025. Applications must ensure the proposed road closure does not affect a main through-route or public transport route. Organisers are also asked to consult with neighbours, address any concerns, and ensure access for emergency services is maintained throughout the event.

You’ll need to provide:

Your name and contact details
The name(s) of the road(s) to be closed
The date and times of the closure
A list of the properties that will be affected
Details of how you will notify residents of the closure
Confirmation that neighbours are on board with the plans

So, roll out your bunting, get the trestle tables down from the loft, and start planning your perfect summer street party!

For more information and to submit your application, visit the Reading Borough Council website.

News

MP for Earley and Woodley Yuan Yang shortlisted for women’s prize

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2025

admin

MP for Earley and Woodley Yuan Yang among shortlisted women for the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction in 2025.

Yuan Yang, the MP for Woodley and Earley, wrote Private Revolutions: Coming of Age in a New China, while Oxford-based Dr Rachel Clarke wrote The Story of a Heart.

Ms Puri said the non-fiction works were “united by an unforgettable voice, rigour, and unique insight”.

The shortlist is rounded out by Dr Rachel Clarke’s The Story of a Heart, The Buffalo Stance singer’s A Thousand Threads, Chloe Dalton’s Raising Hare, Clare Mulley’s Agent Zo: The Untold Stories of Courageous WW2 Resistance Fighter Elzbieta Zawacka, and Helen Scales’ What the Wild Sea Can Be: The Future of the World’s Ocean.