Green Park.

A modern estate and wildlife habitat.

An unlikely combination. Modern business buildings in a wildlife habitat. But that is the unusual setting of Green Park, Reading.

Built on former wasteland, it was low-lying poor quality agricultural land. To counteract the potential for flooding, the nearby Foudry Brook was realigned, and the central feature Longwater Lake constructed.

Interpretation boards highlight the nature and wildlife credentials. The modern buildings create an interesting juxtaposition with the site that they are one.

Despite the fantastic setting, Green Park appears to have had a very chequered career. An initial major occupant was meant to be CISCO. However, they were hit by the “dot.com” bubble bursting, and buildings lay empty for several years.

Companies have now been moving in, although planned expansions, and the intended railway station, have still not been built. It is served by a regular shuttle of “Greenwave” buses from the town centre.

Being a rather grey day (in fact, it was raining when this was taken), I have given this shot some HDR treatment to bring some life into it.

Photograph Details:

• Taken: 10 September 2017
• Camera: Canon 5D MkIII
• Lens: Canon EF 24-70mm 1:2.8 L II USM
• Focal Length 24mm
• F/6.3
• 1/50 Sec
• ISO 100