Step into Reading 2050

A public consultation campaign launched in central Reading over 2 days. 

March 2016

An exhibition aboard a Reading Bus located at Reading Station and Broad Street with supporting physical and online materials elicited over 21,000 interactions with the public. 

Step into Reading 2050 was a two-day exhibition on the future of Reading which took place in the town centre on 1 and 19 March 2016. Its aims were to garner the ideas and enthusiasm of the people who live, work and play in Reading.

Download the Step into Reading 2050 fold out leaflet

The Step into Reading 2050 bus was located in the town centre to spark the public imagination with ideas on what Reading could be like 34 years into the future.

Part of March’s Reading Year of Culture focus on the future of Reading, Step into Reading 2050 will provide futuristic visions of Reading locations designed to transport people into a smart and sustainable future for the town.

Over 2 days, outcomes were as follows:-

• we spoke to over 2000 people face to face over 2 days
• press coverage in Get Reading and BBC Radio Berkshire, Alt Reading and Heart FM.
• social media:reach – 21.5k people (in Reading + 15 miles) including 311 ‘likes’ on our Facebook page 
• Survey:500 responses, 98% of people said Reading should have a vision
• Top three responses to: You’ve stepped into Reading 2050 - what three things do you want to see the most?

1) Better use of our rivers & green spaces

2) Sustainable transport networks

3) Joint place - More opportunities & art and culture / More festivals & pop-up events