Wild Rutland plans submitted for new conservation-led visitor attraction
Proposal aims to turn historic Rutland parkland into a wildlife sanctuary
Plans for Wild Rutland, a new conservation and wildlife-led visitor attraction, have been submitted to Rutland County Council.
Spanning 1,000 acres from Burley Wood to the Oakham bypass, the project promises to conserve parkland, farmland, and woodland for future generations.
Wild Rutland is envisioned as a unique destination allowing visitors to explore British wildlife while contributing to the restoration and conservation of native species and habitats.
The proposal includes habitat restoration initiatives, wildlife conservation areas, and controlled walking routes for immersive nature experiences.
Educational offerings will feature an education and exhibition centre dedicated to learning about the site's environmental and heritage significance.
The attraction will be complemented by leisure facilities including a nature-inspired visitor village, self-catering accommodation, padel and tennis courts, an adventure playground, and a high-ropes course designed with minimal environmental impact.
Wild Rutland is spearheaded by the Hanbury Family, custodians of the estate, with support from CEO Hugh Vere Nicoll.
Extensive consultations, alongside insights from ecologists, landscape specialists, and community feedback, have shaped the final plans.
The submission triggers a statutory consultation led by Rutland County Council, where community members can review the application and offer feedback.
Full details of the plans are accessible on the Council's website, with further developments awaited as the application advances.