Technology, talent and trade underpin Reading economic blueprint
9th July 2026
REDA has published a new Economic Development Framework for Reading, in partnership with Reading Borough Council. With a nod to Reading’s historic 3Bs, the new 3Ts of Technology, Talent and Trade underpin the Framework, which presents a blueprint for delivering sustainable growth, prosperity and inclusion over the next decade.
REDA’s Head of Economic Development, Mark Peason, introduces the thinking behind the Framework, the opportunities and challenges for Reading over the next decade and the key interventions required to deliver sustainable growth.
The Reading Economic Development Framework sets out a shared vision for Reading’s next decade: a smarter, greener, fairer economy driven by collaboration between business, education and communities.
Challenges and opportunities
Over recent years, Reading’s economy has undoubtedly been affected by geo-political shocks, national policy changes, local and evolving demographics and development shifts. The national and regional consequences of accelerated hybrid working, increased youth inactivity, accelerated AI adoption, new international trade rules, inflation pressures, supply chain and business strategy adaptation, energy price volatility, coupled with weakened investment and fluctuating interest rates have all taken a toll.
Specifically, the Economic Development Framework highlights a need for:-
- Targeted-regeneration, strengthened digital infrastructure and a high impact entrepreneurial ecosystem. In short, an agenda to deliver best-in class offices, incubators and scale-up facilities, to attract, retain and expand advanced technology and media-startups and support wider growth sectors.
- We need to enhance retail, leisure and green spaces and the riverside identity to strengthen the town centre’s appeal, particularly as competing towns now invest heavily in amenity-rich environments.
- Expanding community-led cultural activity, promoting Reading as a destination and strengthening public transport and active travel, will all be key to assuring continued economic growth.
- Reading also needs to prepare to become part of a new combined authority and mayoralty within the next two years.
The Reading Economic Development Framework is structured around four themes and eight interlocking interventions:-
Theme 1: Inclusive Reading
- A levelled up skilled workforce for Reading
- Reduced inequalities in skills and employment opportunities
Theme 2: Smart and Sustainable Reading
- Boosted investment in Reading’s key sectors
- Enhancing Reading as an advanced technology economy
Theme 3: Destination Reading
- Place making and enlivening Reading
- Development and promotion of Destination Reading
Theme 4: City Region Reading
- Accelerated transport infrastructure funding
- Integrated devolution plans and proposals
