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University submits planning application for central catering facility – University of Reading

The University of Reading has submitted a planning application for a centralised food production kitchen near the Whiteknights' Pepper Lane entrance.

The creation of a central catering unit is a key plank of the University's Whiteknights Development Plan 2008-18*. A centralised facility will allow the university to offer an improved catering service to staff and students and reduce wastage and the daily trips made around the campus perimeter by delivery vehicles.

If planning permission is obtained, enabling works are due to commence in February 2009 with construction planned to run from June 2009 to July 2010. It is intended that all supplier deliveries to the central facility will be via an existing access road off Pepper Lane which will be upgraded for this purpose. The building will be shielded by existing and enhanced landscaping along the southern boundary to the campus adjacent to Pepper Lane. It is then planned for food to be distributed to the various catering outlets and halls of residence on the campus via an internal access route, which is the subject of a separate pending planning application.

ENDS

Further information from Alex Brannen, Media Relations Manager, on 0118 378 7388

Notes to editors:

*The Whiteknights Development Plan 2008-18 is designed to provide facilities appropriate to the university's world-class standing and international reputation. It was the subject of a public consultation in autumn 2007.