The new and improved California Cross at Finchampstead is taking shape, with work to create an attractive village centre for everyone and improved road infrastructure.

These improvements, which come at no cost to local taxpayers, will create an appealing and safe centre that works well for people walking, cycling or driving.

The condition of the road and overall quality of the footpaths meant the junction would have needed investment soon, so the work includes replacing and upgrading infrastructure like drainage and gullies to ensure that major upheaval isn’t needed in the near future.

Once the work is complete, there will be a three-year protection to stop utility companies digging up the road except in an emergency.

This, along with the new drainage and tarmac, should mean a long period where the crossroads will not experience any roadworks.

The project is going well and on schedule to have the roads re-opened in early summer. Anyone who wants more detailed updates can sign up to the council's dedicated California Cross newsletter.

Executive member for active travel, transport and highways Cllr Paul Fishwick said: “This is an extensive project and a lot of changes are needed to turn an unloved road junction, which has been dominated by traffic, into an attractive village centre that people can enjoy.

“We will also be improving the road infrastructure so it is better able to cope with traffic volumes, as well as improving the drainage.

“I’m pleased to say the early work has gone well and, although you can never be certain what will be found when you dig up a road, things are good at present. We know this work needs to be done as quickly as possible, to minimise disruption as we create the village centre that the area deserves."

Any directly affected businesses can apply to the national Valuation Office Agency (VOA) for a temporary reduction in their business rates.

Full details on how to apply are available on the Government's website and Cllr Stephen Conway, the leader of Wokingham Borough Council, will be writing to the VOA to support local businesses’ case.

Cllr Conway said: “As part of our help for businesses, I’m writing to the VOA to support our local businesses’ case. The best way for them to get financial help is from the VOA, so we are keen to help where we can.”

The council cannot justify paying compensation to businesses temporarily affected by roadworks because it would not be right or fair for council taxpayers from across the borough to pay for support to businesses in one location.

In exceptional cases, and only when the VOA has decided not to amend their business rates following an application from a business, the council can consider applications under its Hardship Fund.

If businesses meet the qualifying criteria, it is possible for the council to reduce the rates payable.