Oakham Town Council convened on Wednesday, 9th April 2025, for a meeting that addressed several important matters concerning the town.

Cutts Close, Oakham, Rutland, 2019

Oakham Town Council convened on Wednesday, 9th April 2025, for a meeting that addressed several important matters concerning the town. The discussions and decisions made will have a tangible impact on the local community in the coming months. Here's a summary of the key outcomes:

 

Audio recording of meeting

 

Repair Works Approved for All Saints Church Wall:

Councillors unanimously agreed to allocate funds for the essential repair of the All Saints Church wall. The contract, valued at £16,740, was awarded to local company R and C. The council expressed its satisfaction in being able to support a local business for this important project, which aims to preserve a significant historical feature of Oakham. The agreed cost is just over the initially anticipated £16,000, with councillors acknowledging the necessity of the work and the competitive quote provided by R and C.

VE Day Anniversary Commemoration:

VE Day anniversary flag will be flown in Cutts Close as a mark of respect and remembrance. However, there would be no formal town flag-raising ceremony at this location. A county-level flag-raising ceremony is scheduled to take place in the castle grounds on VE Day.

Council Offices and Chamber Relocation to Victoria Hall:

A significant decision was made regarding the future location of the Oakham Town Council's offices and chamber. Councillors voted in favour of relocating these facilities to Victoria Hall. To facilitate this move, the council agreed to instruct a solicitor to explore the possibility of securing a lease agreement longer than the initial five-year period. This move is seen as a strategic step to potentially provide a more central and accessible location for council operations and meetings in the long term. Whilst supporting Victoria Halls future.

Summer Band Concerts Given the Green Light:

The council approved all the band concerts that have been planned for the upcoming summer season. This decision will undoubtedly be welcomed by residents and visitors alike, as these concerts have become a popular feature of Oakham's summer calendar, providing free entertainment and fostering a sense of community at the bandstand in Cutts Close

New Contractor Appointed for Cutts Close Roundabout:

The council addressed an unforeseen issue regarding the planned roundabout replacement in Cutts Close. It was reported that the initially appointed contractor no longer wishes to undertake any work with Oakham Town Council. Fortunately, the council has successfully appointed a new contractor to take on this project. While this development may cause a slight delay, the council assured attendees that they are working diligently to ensure the roundabout replacement proceeds as smoothly and efficiently as possible with the new contractor.

In conclusion, the Oakham Town Council meeting on Wednesday, 9th April 2025, saw productive discussions and decisive actions taken on a range of matters crucial to the town's infrastructure, heritage, and community life. The decisions made reflect the council's commitment to maintaining Oakham's character, supporting local businesses, and providing valuable services and events for its residents.