PUBLIC OPINION is being sought with regards to the regeneration of a small area of Finchampstead. 

Gorse Ride, in Finchampstead, lies just outside of Wokingham town centre, which is currently undergoing its own regeneration. 

Now, a public drop-in surgery has been launched for residents to give their thoughts on the works, which will see residents re-housed before homes are demolished. 

Official planning permission will be submitted in Spring 2018. 

Cockayne Court, odd numbered properties between 97 and 107 Arnett Avenue, and 154 Barkham Ride will all be demolished before being re-developed. 

The new homes will be about 40 new homes, made up of one and two bed flats and two and three bed houses, with the tenure mix still to be decided.

The council is currently working on re-homing those who are affected, and in particular, residents of Cockayne Court. 

Wokingham borough council’s deputy executive member for adult services Cllr Richard Dolinski said: “The consultation we carried out ahead in 2015 showed strong general support for regeneration of the estate and we know it will bring great benefits. 

"We understand that people will naturally be concerned about the details and we will work closely with the community to get those right. 

"The steering group and surgeries are very positive steps and will play an important role in making sure local people guide the regeneration of their own estate.”

A specially made steering group, which met for the first time last month, has been constructed, comprising of representatives from the estate, including council tenants and owner occupiers, as well as councillors and council officers. 

A community drop-in surgery will be held at the Community House, Billing Avenue on Tuesday November 28.