138–144 Friar Street: Proposed Co-Living Development

Delivering More for Reading

138–144 Friar Street: Proposed Co-Living Development

Thackeray Group is bringing forward proposals for the redevelopment of 138–144 Friar Street, introducing new co-living accommodation to Reading town centre while carefully retaining the historic Bugle public house.

Our proposals sit alongside the adjacent developments at 1–15 Queen Victoria Street and 145–148 Friar Street, forming part of a wider vision to revitalise this part of Friar Street and act as a catalyst for further improvement across the locality.

Benefits for Reading

Our proposals are designed to deliver environmental, economic and social benefits for the town, including:

  • Much-needed housing in a sustainable, central location

  • Quality, well-considered design that responds to its heritage setting

  • Direct and indirect employment, both during construction and once operational

  • High levels of sustainability, targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating

  • Additional investment into Reading

  • Local authority revenue through CIL and Council Tax contributions

  • A stronger local economy, supporting nearby businesses and footfall

About the Proposal

The scheme provides 145 co-living rooms, supported by a range of high-quality shared amenity spaces clustered across the ground and lower ground floors, including:

  • Co-working space

  • Resident lounge

  • Shared kitchen

  • Fitness suite

  • Multi-media / cinema room

  • Laundry facilities

  • Landscaped garden

The development respects the heritage sensitivities of the site by retaining and refurbishing the much-loved Bugle public house for continued Use Class E, ensuring this local landmark remains part of Friar Street's future.

Together, these proposals will bring new residents into the heart of the town centre, offering a professionally managed, alternative housing solution for Reading.