Work has commenced to decarbonise Reading Borough Council's Civic Offices as part of broader plans to accommodate a new purpose-built Central Library and revamped customer service area. Contractor Morgan Sindall has begun replacing the existing gas boilers with air-source heat pumps, supporting the Council's goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2030. Additionally, the aging air-cooling system is being upgraded for improved efficiency.

While construction is underway, a section of the Civic Offices courtyard has been closed off, but residents can still access the building via the Bridge Street entrance. However, visitors may experience higher noise levels and are advised to exercise caution due to increased lorry deliveries in the area.

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Visitor parking at the Civic Offices is no longer available, and residents are encouraged to use nearby parking facilities on Fobney Street, The Oracle, and blue badge spaces in St Mary’s Butts. Public transport is also recommended for those traveling to the town centre.

Councillor Liz Terry, Leader of the Council, said: "We have got to the stage where we start to see the preparation work happening on site. Removing the old gas boilers is an important aspect of the project and the Council’s buildings becoming carbon neutral.

"Significant work has gone into the project up to now including applying for government money and creating the plans which are coming to fruition. We now have people on site starting the work to make this a fantastic community asset.

"The library will have a larger area for children and teenagers, as well as study and work desks.

"The redesigned reception will have an improved customer service area for residents which includes the ability to use self-serve terminals.

"These are modern facilities residents of Reading deserve and will use well into the future."

The modernisation of library services has been possible with a £19.1million investment into the cultural offer in the town by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.