Wolves and Bears Set for Rutland as Ambitious ‘Wild Rutland’ Vision Unveiled
by Martin Brookes
Plans have been formally submitted for a transformative 1,000-acre (435-hectare) conservation and tourism destination east of Burley Park Way. Named "Wild Rutland," the project seeks to take visitors on an immersive journey 1,000 years back in time, reintroducing iconic species that once roamed the British landscape.
The heart of the proposal, submitted by the Wild Rutland Partnership, is a managed wildlife park that will become home to Eurasian Brown Bears, Grey Wolves, Eurasian Lynx, and Elk. These species will live in large, naturalistic enclosures designed to mirror their historic habitats.
The project is described as a "conservation-led" effort to restore the local ecology. Central to the plan is the protection and enhancement of Burley Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Developers intend to convert surrounding arable farmland into native woodlands and wildflower meadows, creating a massive biodiversity net gain for the county.
Wild Rutland is designed as a multi-day destination, blending education with high-end leisure. The planning statement outlines several key features:
An 83-room complex consisting of a hotel and nature-integrated lodges will allow guests to stay overnight within the park.
A central visitor center featuring retail spaces and "refuel stations" in the form of multiple cafes and dining outlets.
Beyond animal sightings, the park will feature a high-ropes adventure course built into the woodland canopy and "halls of residence" to host school groups and university researchers.
The Burley Estate, which has been farmed by the Hanbury family for generations, views the project as a vital diversification of their agricultural land. If approved, Wild Rutland is expected to create 75 full-time equivalent jobs for the local community.
Support over 1,300 parking spaces, including dedicated bays for coaches and large vehicles to manage tourism traffic.
Utilize a solar array to ensure the park’s infrastructure remains sustainable and carbon-conscious.
The application (Ref: 2026/0066/MAF) is currently under review by Rutland County Council. If the project clears the planning hurdles this year, construction could begin as early as Summer 2026, with a target opening date of 2027.
"Wild Rutland represents one of the most significant private investments in UK conservation this decade," the planning statement notes, aiming to position the county at the forefront of the UK’s nature-recovery movement.
Members of the public can view the full plans and environmental impact assessments on the Rutland County Council planning portal.
Planning Application:
Comment:
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