We just can't be in that world anymore, because life is changing"
(Adapted from Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor, July 2024)
B481, Peppard Road
Emmer Green to Sonning Common
Alternatives
Most people agree that it is desirable to get cyclists off this stretch of road.
It is the shortest existing route between the two communities, but is problematic.
Many people; existing cyclists, and potential bike riders young and old, would be uncomfortable on it.
Parents worry about their children using it.
Motorists become frustrated when following the slower, more vulnerable pedaller.
The several servicable surfaced options all have disadvantages.
.<Click to enlarge.The Community Survey proves the demand for something better, separated from traffic, either “on” or close to B481. . .
The Sonning Common Cycleway group
Background
A safer cycleway to link Sonning Common and Emmer Green was proposed in 2020.
The concept gathered momentum in 2021 with the formation of a volunteer Working Party approved by Sonning Common Parish Council and led by a SCPC Councillor.
The Working Party has developed ideas and is campaigning for a safe, non-athletic bike route to link the two communities. This could equally appeal to pedestrians and users of mobility scooters.
The objectives of the working group are:
To provide a safe, accessible, mixed-mode multi-use cycleway linking Sonning Common to the Emmer Green district of Reading, via a ‘Greenway’ route, alleviating some residents' sense of "being trapped in Sonning Common” unless one uses vehicular modes of transport.
Benefits of establishing the cycleway will include:
Providing alternative infrastructure would benefit all parties.
The removal of sole reliance on vehicular travel between Sonning Common and Emmer Green, offering an Active Travel option with its enhanced health and environmental benefits.
A safe ‘cycle to school’ option for Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge and Highdown secondary schools.
A safe ‘cycle to sport’ option to the Abbey Rugby Club sports facility.
An interlink with Reading Borough Council Strategic Cycleway 3, as per approved Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
A safe, improved and accessible gateway to the Chilterns for Reading residents.
A safe, accessible alternative to the National Cycle Network 5 route, between Reading, Sonning Common and nearby villages in South Oxfordshire.
The removal of traffic accident risk on the busy B481 which will be to the benefit of all methods of travel between Reading and Sonning Common.
Economic benefits to businesses in Emmer Green, Reading, Sonning Common and surrounding villages as a result emabling more cyclists, walkers and runners to commute and/or exercise without using a route currently considered by many to be too dangerous for active travel.
List of those who would benefit from a decent cycleway.
Costs and Funding
The working group is currently exploring various sources for funding the proposed scheme, including contributions from local councils, local and national businesses, charitable funding and individual donations.
We welcome applications from potential donors and fundraisers. Please get in touch if you are able to contribute directly or have the skills and experience of raising project funding in the public domain.
The Route:
A number of route options have been researched by the working group. Potential routes run to the east or the west of the B481, from Kennylands Rd in Sonning Common to near the water tower in Emmer Green. The final route will be confirmed once agreements have been reached with landowners.
Media Articles featuring Sonning Common Cycleway.
Henley Standard - Cycleway plan goes to public - "Residents welcome ..". - Letters Aug '23 -
Sonning Common Magazine - Click image to open either of these, or find them via sonningcommonmagazine.org
Feb/Mar 2023 . 
. . Dec 2021/Jan 2022 
. If you know of any earlier ones, please tell us.
Reading Cycle Campaign Item - Click image to open this - November 2024
.or find it at Reading Cycle Campaign . Specifically, Newsletters Winter 2024. . . .COMMUNITY SURVEY
Sonning Common and Emmer Green residents were asked their views on plans for a cycle route between the two communities, to connect with links to Reading and into the Chilterns.
Survey completed April 2023 - Amazing response - More than 1,000 completed.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive in support for the proposed cycleway.
Many thanks to all who contributed.
We welcome feedback, ideas and new members. Please do get in touch via the link below.
(Material below derived from F-book)
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