Oakham Residents and Traders Grow Frustrated with Brooke Road Crossing Closure

Oakham Residents and Traders Grow Frustrated with Brooke Road Closure

The ongoing closure of Brooke Road in Oakham, Rutland, has sparked growing anger and frustration among residents and local businesses. The road and level crossing have been closed since July, and this week, Rutland County Council announced a further delay in reopening until November 30th.

Residents and traders have expressed concerns about the lack of communication and support from both Oakham South Rutland County Councillors and Burmor Construction Ltd. Despite numerous attempts to contact them, residents claim their correspondence has been ignored.

Nearby retailers in Mill Street have reported a significant decline in trade due to the closure. The confusing diversion signs, particularly those at the top of Mill Street, have misled many people into believing that Mill Street itself is closed. This has deterred potential customers from visiting the area.

One Mill Street trader took to social media to express their frustration, stating that the closure has negatively impacted their shopping experience and sales. They urged residents to share their experiences and concerns with the local authority.

Debbie Oakes

Debbie Oakes, another Mill Street business owner, has been vocal about the situation, criticising the lack of empathy from the County Council and the inconvenience caused to residents and businesses. She has contacted the BBC to raise awareness of the issue and is calling for the community to make their voices heard. "The closure has also led to increased traffic congestion in the town, with journey times significantly extended. Despite the growing discontent, the local MP has shown no interest in getting involved."

The situation has reached a boiling point, and residents and traders are demanding action from the authorities to address the ongoing closure and its negative consequences.

Editors Comment and Opinion: A Disappointing Lack of Accountability

The ongoing closure of Brooke Road in Oakham is a stark reminder of the often-overlooked consequences of development projects. While the Brooke Road Development may be relatively small in comparison to other projects in the area, its impact on residents and businesses has been disproportionately negative.

The closure has caused significant inconvenience to countless people, disrupting daily routines and negatively affecting local economies. The lack of communication and responsiveness from both Rutland County Council and the developer is a major disappointment. It is essential that those responsible for such projects take their obligations to the community seriously and provide timely updates and support.

Network Rail's clarification that they did not request the crossing closure further highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from the local authorities and developers involved.

While MP Alicia Kearns' responded and agreed with my suggestion to assist those less able to get into town is a step in the right direction, it does not address the underlying issues of the closure and the lack of support for the community.

It is imperative that the authorities involved take swift action to reopen Brooke Road and mitigate the negative impacts of this prolonged closure. The community deserves better communication, transparency, and support from those responsible for these projects.

Brooke Road

Mill Street Oakham

Brooke Road, Oakham, Rutland, Closure Extended: Update from Rutland County Council and Burmor Construction Ltd

 Brooke Road Closure Extended: Update from Rutland County Council

The reopening of Brooke Road in Oakham has been postponed until November 30, 2024, due to unforeseen challenges encountered during the construction process.

Rutland County Council and Burmor Construction Ltd released a joint statement explaining that the delay is primarily caused by issues beyond their control, such as unexpected delays in tree felling and the discovery of utility services in locations not indicated on existing plans. These factors have necessitated a revision of the kerb and drainage design, requiring additional permits and approvals from utility companies.

While the road remains closed to vehicles, Burmor Construction Ltd anticipates reinstating partial pedestrian access starting from November 4, 2024. From Monday to Friday, the footpath along Brooke Road will be open under supervision during specific hours: 8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm. This temporary measure aims to facilitate school pedestrian access and will be monitored by Burmor representatives for safety reasons.

The existing arrangements for residents with suspended parking bays will remain in effect throughout the extended closure period. Season tickets will continue to be valid until the road reopens.

Both Rutland County Council and Burmor Construction Ltd apologise for any inconvenience caused by the closure. They emphasise that the completed project will bring significant benefits to the community, including improved traffic flow and the addition of 40 affordable homes.