Council approves plan to improve public access and safety at Bull Inn, Streatley

The council has approved an application supporting improved access to a village pub.

West Berkshire Council has approved an application, submitted by John Boler, seeking to improve an existing access route between the Grade II-listed Bull Inn at Streatley and its hotel accommodation outbuildings.

The proposal seeks to redesign the existing eroded, stepped path to enable better disabled access and to improve public safety by encouraging pedestrians to avoid crossing Streatley Hill to Reading Road – a junction known for vehicle collisions.

“The plan originates from the request of a resident of Hill Gardens, Streatley,” said Mr Boler. “It will bring relief to many other pedestrians, especially users of wheelchairs and mobility scooters and of parents escorting children to and from the primary school.”

The application seeks to widen the path by a maximum of 20 per cent and create a gentle incline.

The proposal also includes the construction of a small-scale retaining wall, painted white to match the colour of the 18th-century pub.

Streatley Parish Council has no objections to proposal and is contributing to the costs.

Residents also welcome the proposed change.

“I am an occasional customer of the Bull Inn and considering my mobility issues I would welcome a safer passage as described in this application,” said Preston Bemis.

Jane Crowther added: “I have needed to use a mobility scooter and a wheelchair, so have experienced the difficulties of trying to negotiate the traffic and lack of sightline when rounding the corner from Streatley Hill to Reading Road.

“It is dangerous as cars and pedestrians are unable to see each other before rounding the corner and there is little to no space to avoid each other.”