Oakham Town Council Eyes Upgrades and Morris Dancers in Jam-Packed February Agenda

Oakham Town Council Eyes Upgrades and Morris Dancers in Jam-Packed February Agenda
By the Rutland Democracy Reporter

The gears of local government are turning in Oakham this week as Town Councillors prepare to gather for their monthly session. With a 21-item agenda ranging from essential infrastructure to the return of traditional festivities, the meeting on Wednesday, 11th February 2026, promises a busy night for the town’s representatives.

The Council is looking to modernise the town’s infrastructure, starting with the Willowbrook lights. Members will vote on a proposal to replace aging light fitments with energy-efficient LED heads a move estimated to cost approximately £1,000.

Additionally, safety is on the table with the proposed adoption of Grit Bin Policy v2. As winter weather remains a concern, this updated policy aims to clarify how and where the town’s salt supplies are managed.

Oakham’s social calendar is already taking shape for the spring. The Council will decide whether to allocate funds to hire Morris Dancers for the upcoming Cycle Race on April 26th. While the cyclists provide the speed, the Council hopes the dancers will provide the traditional Rutland atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Oakham in Bloom may receive a significant boost this week. The Council is considering a request for an annual payment of £1,700 to extend watering services to the group’s various town planters.

The Council is also expected to green-light contractors for two essential maintenance tasks, Play Equipment Cleaning: Routine hygiene and maintenance for local parks. Bandstand Repair Vital works to keep the town's iconic bandstand in top condition.

Behind the scenes, the Council is looking to tighten its fiscal oversight. Item 12 on the agenda proposes the immediate re-establishment of the Finance Committee with a revised Terms of Reference (ToR). This follows a scheduled review of bank signatories and the scrutiny of the January 2026 budget reports.

In the spirit of transparency, the Council has reminded residents that the meeting is open to the public and press. However, attendees should be aware that proceedings will be filmed or recorded and streamed live.

• When: Wednesday, 11th February 2026, at 6:30 p.m.

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

• Public Participation: A short period is allocated for residents to put questions to the council at the start of the meeting.

Note for Attendees: All mobile phones must be switched to silent for the duration of the proceedings.