RESIDENTS are overjoyed with plans to rid Wokingham of its ‘eyesore’ in Peach Street.

Plans went on display to the public last Thursday, where proposals for a three-storey residential development were unveiled.

The 1980s red brick building on the corner of Peach Street and Cross Street, and the units next door at 74-80 Peach Street – including a car park – were acquired by property developer Jansons, nearly a year ago.

The plans involve bulldozing the existing structures, and building 39 apartments – eight one-bedroom and 31 two-bedroom flats. These would sit on the second and third floor, with the first being turned into a decked carpark, with 35 parking space – including four disabled spaces – with greenery on top. The shops would also be rebuilt as one retail space.

About 55 people turned up at the exhibiton at the Town Hall, Market Place, including Carly-Emma Dart, 27, who lives in Cross Street, overlooking the site, said: “I’m pleased with how it’s going to look; at the moment it’s not pretty. It’s an eyesore and it’s been sitting there for a long time.

“I was worried about increased traffic; it’s bad enough as it is so I’m glad there’s parking.” It will be rebuilt around a metre back from its current position, allowing room for the pavement on the opposite side to be widened.

Sue Farringdon, from north Wokingham, said: “I’ve lived here for 30 years and the present building is absolutely horrific. This has been a long time coming, It’s an important gateway to the town but at moment it’s very ugly.” Stephen McGregor, of Tropic Estates Ltd, which is part of part of Jansons, said: “We received some very positive feedback from local residents, and we will now review the feedback as we look to finalise our plans. We will keep the local community updated on our plans.” Tropic Estates Ltd, will redevelop the site and hopes to submit a planning application in the near future.