Details have emerged from the first meeting of a new cross-party group set up to tackle parking and congestion around Twyford station.
Pressure on nearby streets has increased since the Elizabeth Line began linking the area directly to Tottenham Court Road, Bond Street and the city.
The group, formed in March, is led by Cllr Adrian Betteridge, Wokingham borough vouncil’s executive member for highways and active travel. He is joined by cllr Peter Harper (Con) and Cllr Nagi Nagella (Lab).
While some Conservatives have pushed for more parking, Liberal Democrat councillors are focusing on a wider mix of options, including walking, cycling and public transport.
One idea under discussion is a dedicated rush-hour bus service between Wokingham and Twyford, potentially running from Broad Street and the Coppid Beech park and ride.
The group held its first meeting on March 24, attended by a representative from Great Western Railway, who outlined current work and shared data on passenger demand and travel patterns.
Members discussed a range of ways to improve access to the station, including possible changes to the forecourt.
Cllr Betteridge said: “The meeting was collaborative and constructive and I believe the work undertaken to date by the council was recognised and well received.
“The best solutions are likely to come from the co-development of solutions with partner organisations.
“Many of the issues discussed will remain confidential until ideas have matured and we have the opportunity to consult with the relevant stakeholders potentially involved.”
Cllr Harper added: “It was a very positive meeting with useful information on where commuters are travelling from to catch the train at Twyford and plenty of options which might solve the parking issues.
“The working group is an example where members set politics aside and work together for the benefit of the whole borough.
“We look forward to reporting back with practical short term solutions which will make a difference to commuters and residents alike.”
Speaking on behalf of Cllr Nagi Nagella, Labour group leader Rachel Burgess said there were “no immediate fixes”, but stressed the group’s commitment to long-term solutions.
She added: “Some elements discussed remain confidential at this stage, particularly around potential future options.
“Both short-term and longer-term parking solutions are being considered.
“There are no immediate fixes, but the working group is committed to finding sustainable solutions.
“A follow-up meeting is planned after the May elections to continue progressing this work.”
She added that, in his role as a Wokingham town councillor, Cllr Nagella would continue to push for support towards a direct bus service between Wokingham and Twyford.
The group is due to meet again in May, when a draft report is expected to be prepared for the council’s executive.
