Company developing HQ site vows to 'keep listening'

A developer that has knocked down a complex used by the former Berkshire County Council said it will "keep listening" to residents following concerns over disruption.

The authority, which was abolished in 1998, used Shire Hall at the Shinfield Arms roundabout from 1981. The site was used by two other companies before it shut in 2024.

Wrenbridge secured planning permission from Wokingham Borough Council last year to use the site for five warehouse-style business and industrial buildings.

But director Robin Means said it takes worries from neighbours over noise, dust and vibrations "seriously" and said the heaviest, most disruptive work has been completed.

Means said the company has kept residents informed of progress through newsletters, a website and a dedicated contact line.

It has also held a meeting in person with residents and a local councillor, he said.

Means added that vibration monitoring has taken place and that all of its readings are within the standard guidance. He said the company hah shared information with Wokingham Borough Council.

"We'll keep listening, and we'll keep residents updated until the work is finished next spring," he added.

Wokingham Borough Council's leader said Stephen Conway said he was hopeful that conditions for neighbours will "improve very soon" now the "heaviest and probably the most disruptive" work is over.