Proposed Changes to Oakham Library: A Community Hub in the Making

Proposed Changes to Oakham Library: A Community Hub in the Making

Rutland County Council is considering a new planning application for Oakham County Library, located at Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland. The proposed alterations include changes to the side elevation, removal of garage doors, and the creation of a new front entrance and internal modifications.

This application follows the withdrawal of a similar proposal in August 2024, which sought to convert the garage and storage room into a family space and community hub. The new plans aim to address concerns raised by local residents, particularly those residing in Bull Lane, regarding the potential impact of a youth club on the area.

One of the key concerns expressed by local residents was the potential for increased noise and traffic associated with a youth club located near their homes. In response to these concerns, Cllr Raymond Payne, a local ward councillor, has objected to the proposal. In his written objection, Cllr Payne stated:

"I feel that I need to register my concern at the possibility of any entrance and exit of said club coming in/out onto Bull Lane. This is a lane immediately adjacent to a residential area with a large number of elderly people in residence who would not benefit from large numbers of boisterous young people entering or leaving a youth club. I am all in favour of a youth club in Oakham, it is very much needed, I have doubts about the Library as the best location?"

In response to these concerns, the planning officer has confirmed that the proposed plans have been significantly revised to address the issues raised. The new plans include the removal of the existing metal garage door, the opening would be bricked up.  A new entrance on Catmos Street is planned. The proposed entrance onto Bull Lane has been removed from the plans, and three high-level windows will be added to the side elevation.

The planning officer has emphasised that planning permission is only required for the external alterations to the library, as an internal access is being retained.

The proposed changes to Oakham County Library represent a significant step towards creating a community hub that can benefit the local community. By addressing the concerns raised by residents and incorporating the necessary modifications, the project has the potential to become a valuable asset to the area.

The space became available due to Rutland County Council scrapping its mobile library service after the service was temporarily suspended during lockdown.