AI technology and art-house hotel: Residents have their say on Reading Gaol's fate

The new owners of Reading Prison have revealed their plans for the site despite significant backlash from the town's residents.

The site, affectionately known as Reading Gaol, has been vacant for more than a decade, with the last inmates being moved from the prison in November 2013.

After a sale process which saw the Ministry of Justice selling the Prison for £7 million, purchaser the Ziran Education Foundation has announced what it intends to do.

A spokesperson for the foundation said they were "thrilled" to share their "vision" for the site, which will be based on three priorities.

The spokesperson said: "First, in partnership with a distinguished design firm, we're exploring innovative solutions, including the integration of AI technology.

"Our aspiration is to create robots tailored to our unique requirements, complementing human efforts in select areas of the premises. Furthermore, we're envisioning the establishment of a distinctive art museum, museum, and an art-inspired hotel."

But what do the people of Reading actually think about  Ziran Education Foundation's plans?

One person said "What’s next? I am guessing that there will be a lot of moaning, concerns raised about the Banksy graffiti, a lot of mentions about art hubs and dismay that all the developers are interested in is making money."

In agreement with the previous comment, another person wrote "Just gobbledygook, interestingly collaboration with the University of Reading, in other words more student accommodation at a premium rate for foreign students."

A further person said "It sounds like random thoughts posted and put through Google Translate.

"A hotel has previously been ruled out as the layout does not suit it. And any hope of building will likely be thwarted by the fact that it's a Heritage Site and under the ground are significant remains of Reading Abbey.

"They'll likely hang onto it, realise it's a dud and try to sell it on. Don't know who'd buy it though."

The Prison sale was even addressed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in an interview with veteran BBC broadcaster Andrew Peach.

PM Sunak was unable to reveal the foundation as the buyer at the time of the interview last September but said that any plans would be subject to approval from Reading Borough Council.

It is understood that the foundation will now devise its masterplan for the site in consultation with the council's planning department, and hold public consultations before and after an official planning application is submitted.