Second Oakham Protest at Rutland County Council, Rutland County Council Approves Quarry Farm Development, Leaving Campaigners Heartbroken

Rutland County Council Approves Quarry Farm Development, Leaving Campaigners Heartbroken

 

 On January 14, 2025, Rutland County Council made a decision that has left many local residents feeling devastated. The planning committee approved a proposal by Allison Homes to construct 650 homes at Quarry Farm, located on the border of Rutland and Stamford. This decision has been met with heartfelt dismay from campaigners who have passionately fought to protect what they see as nature reserve.

The approval comes just a month after the green light was given for the larger Stamford North development, which will add 1,350 homes to the area. This series of developments raises significant concerns for those who cherish Quarry Farm, a site that offers sanctuary and solace for many community members.

Before the council meeting, a group of dedicated individuals gathered to protests their concern, chanting “Save Quarry Farm” in hopes of being heard. Despite their passionate pleas, the planning committee ultimately voted in favour of the scheme, with seven members supporting it, one opposing, and two abstaining. 

During the lengthy meeting, several councillors expressed their worries about the impact that such a development would have on local traffic and essential services. The sense of urgency for new housing was met with a palpable sense of hesitation. Tim Smith, a Lib Dem councillor, portrayed this struggle, reluctantly proposing the project, acknowledging both the pressing need for homes and the potential consequences for the local community. 

The Quarry Farm site spans 65 hectares and will include a 35-hectare country park, which is a small beacon of hope for those who wish to see an integration of nature within the development. However, planning officers noted that the council lacked the necessary ten-year housing supply, which placed an obligation on them to approve the application unless the negative impacts would significantly outweigh its benefits. 

In the wake of the decision, Georgina McCrae, Planning Director for Allison Homes, shared her understanding of how vital Quarry Farm is to the local community. She expressed hope that the development would contribute to fulfilling local housing needs while also providing a space for wildlife and recreational use.

Nevertheless, the sentiment among campaigners is one of profound loss. Carys Vaughan, a lead campaigner, shared her sorrow, reflecting on the three-year struggle to save the site. Her lament echoes the feelings of many who view Quarry Farm as not just a piece of land, but a precious part of their community’s identity and heritage. Fellow campaigner Laura Upson echoed this pain, lamenting the perceived inadequacies of the existing planning system.

Concerns from the community extend beyond the loss of nature; local residents fear that this approval will bring significant challenges to Stamford. One resident articulated the frustration of seeing their town face pressures from developments that may benefit the council financially but strain the community’s infrastructure and services.

As more families move into the area, the worries about increased traffic and the heightened demands on healthcare and schooling resonate deeply with many, including local councillors. Karen Payne raised red flags about the safety of nearby junctions, while other councillors pointed to the need for a comprehensive strategy to support incoming residents adequately.