Concerns were raised over the consequences of Rutland County Council deciding to invest public money in the acquisition and development of the Ashwell Prison site.

Uppingham First: Concerns were raised over the consequences of Rutland County Council deciding to invest public money in the acquisition and development of the Ashwell Prison site.

In effect, Uppingham council tax payers were being asked to fund the development of start-up business units which would then offer subsidised competition to the town’s own employment sites. Some argued that this was inappropriate public sector interference in the free market. Directors Baines and Bool (both Tory County Councillors) argued that knowledge of the full facts might influence Director thinking on the matter. It was therefore agreed that the relevant RCC portfolio holder, Terry King, be invited to meet Directors to discuss the matter.