As a local Reading based business, we are passionate about our area and therefore were terribly excited to learn of the towns recent bid to be granted with “city” status and with this window of opportunity opening for Reading, councillors have eagerly clubbed together in an effort to put Reading’s request for city status forward, (due to be reviewed by the Queen in 2012).

Reading has been made famous for many things over recent years including being the hosts to one of the country’s most popular festivals and with a wealth of arts, culture, retail, transportation links and commercial ties it is no surprise to learn that Reading is often referred to as the commercial capital of the Thames Valley!

Picture: Reading Festival

But despite all of these great tributes Reading has not previously been recognised as a city, much to the disapproval of the council, its partners and much of Readings population, Jo Lovelock, Leader of Reading Borough Council Cllr comments: “We believe Reading should finally be recognised as a city. It’s got a rich heritage and it also has a 21st Century approach and you just have to look around Reading to see that it should be a city already.”

Readings bid will be considered in 2012 and with a strong case for approval to be granted, Reading could be about to gain the notoriety it deserves! This potential change will bring about fantastic new opportunities for economical growth through funding, endorsement and tourism.

Local businesses across Reading are largely keen that the bid be approved as it’s forecasted to have a significant increase in Reading’s credibility not to mention a positive finance impact. If you are a local business in Reading what are your thoughts on the bid. Tell us what you think by commenting, should Reading be crowned a city? Do you beleive it will change Reading’s environment? Do you think your business will benefit?

Reading, watch this space!