Oakham Council Faces Cultural Crossroads Amid Victoria Hall Closure, extraordinary meeting

Oakham Council Faces Cultural Crossroads Amid Victoria Hall Closure

by The Local Democracy Reporter.

 A major bid for a new government initiative and a significant modernisation of the Town Council’s digital infrastructure are set to headline an upcoming extraordinary meeting of Oakham Town Council.

The meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, will see local representatives gather at the council offices at Rol House to discuss the future of the town’s cultural standing and its internal operations.

The most high-profile item on the agenda is a proposal for Oakham to bid for the Town of Culture, a new government initiative. If successful, the designation could potentially unlock funding and prestige for the town.

However, time is of the essence. Following the government’s announcement last October via County Councils, (Rutland County Council have said they did not receive notification to inform town councils) the initial application which requires public and stakeholder consultations must be completed by March. Critics have pointed to the Council's history of slow progress, most notably regarding the ongoing efforts to rescue Victoria Hall from trustee failings. Despite over a year of council intervention, Victoria Hall closed its doors this month, casting a shadow over the town's cultural capacity just as this new bid is considered.

In addition to cultural ambitions, the Council is looking to streamline its communication and financial management. Members will consider SMS Messaging adopting "GOV.UK Notify" as the Council’s official system for sending text messages to residents.

Implementing Google Workspace to better coordinate consultations, surveys, and working groups.

The potential transfer of council funds from HSBC to Unity Bank.

Public Participation

As with all full council meetings, residents are encouraged to attend and participate. Under the Council’s standing orders, there is a designated window for public deputations and questions.

However, residents are reminded that outside of these specific periods, public participation is only permitted at the Chairman's discretion. Those attending should also be aware that the proceedings are filmed and recorded and streamed live.

Meeting Details:

When: Wednesday, 4th February 2026, at 6:30 p.m. 

Where: Town Council Offices, Rol House, Long Row, Oakham 

Next Meeting: 11th February 2026

A Special Evening with a National Treasure Dame Mary Berry at Rutland Nursery

Gardening enthusiasts and fans of the legendary Dame Mary Berry have a rare treat in store this spring. On Tuesday, 10th March 2026, Rutland Nursery will host the beloved cook and gardener for an exclusive "Authors in Conversation" event to celebrate the release of her memoir, My Gardening Life.
While many know her for her iconic role in the kitchen, Mary’s heart has always belonged to the soil. This event offers a unique glimpse into the private passions of a national treasure, set against the stunning backdrop of The View at Rutland Nursery.

A Journey from Seed to Soil

In her new book, My Gardening Life, Mary Berry traces her horticultural roots back to her childhood in Bath. She shares how her father’s seed packets first sparked a curiosity that has spanned decades. Readers and event guests will learn about, The tiny childhood plot that started it all.  Navigating the shaded corners of her former London home to her current flourishing Oxfordshire garden. Practical tips on everything from container gardening to the secrets of perfect asparagus. Insights and contributions from gardening royalty like Alan Titchmarsh, Sarah Raven, and Bunny Guinness.

The Event Experience

The evening is designed to be as warm and inspiring as Mary herself. Hosted by Rutland Nursery’s in-house expert Chris Young, the event features an intimate interview followed by a relaxed Q&A session where you can ask Mary for your own gardening (or perhaps baking!) tips.

Event Schedule

6:45 pm: Doors open. Enjoy a selection of refreshments (wine or non-alcoholic options) and gourmet canapés.
7:20 pm: Guests called to be seated.
7:30 pm: Live interview with Dame Mary Berry.
8:15 pm: Q&A session with the floor.
8:45 pm: Event concludes.

Booking & Tickets

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this high-profile appearance. Notably, 10% of all ticket sales will be donated to Mary’s chosen charity, making it an evening of both personal enrichment and giving back.

Ticket Type	Price	Includes
Standard Entry	£40	Refreshments & canapés on arrival.
Signed Book Ticket	£60	Entry, refreshments, plus a personally signed copy of My Gardening Life.

Tickets are on sale now! You can secure your spot via the link below:  Book Tickets Here
Contact Information
For further inquiries, please reach out to the Rutland Nursery events team:
Contact: Victoria Cutting, Events Manager
Email: victoria@rutlandnursery.co.uk
Website: www.rutlandnursery.co.uk
Socials: @rutlandnursery