Traffic chaos warning over Barkham development plans

A number of simultaneous building projects could cause traffic "chaos", a councillor has warned.

Work on a solar farm, two special educational needs (SEND) schools, and to extend a country park is set to take place in Barkham, Berkshire, in 2025.

Finchampstead councillor Charles Margetts warned a number of private developments could potentially begin work around the same time.

Wokingham Borough Council proposed a board to co-ordinate its works.

Work on the solar farm on land where Barkham Ride meets Barkham Street is due to take place during the spring and summer of 2025.

Two new SEND schools are planned for Rooks Nest Farm on Barkham Ride.

There are also pending planning applications for more than 80 homes on Barkham Ride.

Mr Margetts said: "We've got the SEND school and the solar farm being built at the same time. That's going to cause absolute chaos.

"For residents of Finchampstead with California Crossroads going on at the moment, then this - it'll be touching a very raw nerve."

Wokingham Borough Council officer Sarah Morgan said the authority would be able to control its own projects - but would not have the same powers over private developers or utility companies.

She said: "We will do everything we can to engage with those private developers that are around us constructing.

"I can't compel them to coordinate with us. But we will do everything we can."

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