Why was the Oracle in Reading built?

The Oracle in Reading was built to create a vibrant retail and leisure destination that would revitalize the town center. Opened in 1999, it aimed to attract shoppers and visitors by offering a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options along the River Kennet. The development also sought to enhance the urban landscape and provide a modern space for community engagement and events. Overall, it was part of a broader effort to boost the local economy and improve the appeal of Reading as a commercial hub.