The Friends of Christchurch Green are delighted to announce the arrival of a Heritage Board to celebrate the history of this vibrant part of Reading and are honoured that the Vice Chancellor of the University of Reading, Professor Robert Van de Noort CBE, will unveil the Board on Wednesday 21 February 2024 marking the close relationship between the University and the community. The board is located at the junction of Shinfield Road, Christchurch Road and Redlands Road close to the main entrance of the University’s Whiteknights campus.
Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “The University is proud to have played a part in welcoming this new heritage board to Christchurch Green. It serves as a fantastic reminder for all about our connection with the local community, both now and in the past.”
The idea for this Heritage Board came from the artist Jenny Halstead, well known locally for the Whiteknights Studio Trail (now in its 24th year).
Jenny says :
“I wanted to celebrate this area – where 5 roads meet, linking the community to the University‘s beautiful Whiteknights campus. Even in an age of information, a permanent site offers an introduction to the area, and creates a sense of belonging to new students and new residents alike.
The Board welcomes people to Christchurch Green - (presently only recognised by named bus stops).
It gives a short history of the University and the area around which we live – biscuits, bulbs, beer and bricks with an image circa 1906 looking up Shinfield Road from the Green. I have chosen three individuals (selected from hundreds) who I think represent both University and community in their different walks of life and list the exciting places to visit, all free and within easy walking distance from the Board.
The back of the Board shows a map of the area in 1840, a rural landscape showing only Christchurch Road and Red Lane (now Redlands Road) before either Elmhurst, Marlborough or Northcourt Avenue were even built.
We are grateful to RGSpaces, a local charity and The University of Reading for funding, James Dibble from Equal Studio Ltd. for designing and producing the Board and Reading Borough Council staff involved in its installed.”
Annette Howarth, Chair of RGSpaces who offered half the sponsorship grant said:
“RG Spaces was delighted to be able to help the installation of this heritage board. Standing at the crossroads linking the University and the town, Christchurch Green is the perfect spot to help both students and residents learn more about some of their distinguished predecessors and their neighbourhood’s rich history.”
Dave McElroy, Redlands Green Party Councillor said:
“Great to see town and gown working together to celebrate our special part of Reading. Well done to Jenny and the team for getting this lovely landmark installed.”
Fiona Talkington, local resident and BBC Radio 3 Presenter, grew up around Christchurch Green and says:
“I crossed over the Green to get to school, I had my first job in the shops at the Green and during lockdown I presented my radio shows from home close to the Green. It’s a place held in great affection by many.”
Robert Cox is another local resident who grew up close to the Green. He’s seen many changes, but, he says: “The Green is still recognisable and, for me, reaching it after a journey it means ‘you’re nearly home now’”.
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