By Local Democracy & Public Affairs Reporter not affiliated to the BBC LDRS
Plans for a significant new residential development on the southern edge of Oakham have moved a step closer, as The Society of Merchant Venturers (SMV) submits an outline planning application for land south of Stamford Road. The proposal, which aligns with the draft Rutland Local Plan (October 2024), aims to deliver up to 94 new homes to help meet the county’s growing housing requirements.
As Rutland County Council works toward its goal of accommodating at least 2,460 new homes between 2021 and 2041, the Stamford Road site has been identified as a key location for growth. Under Policy H1.1 of the emerging Local Plan, the site is slated for an indicative capacity of 94 homes.
The Society of Merchant Venturers, acting as the endowment trustee for the St. Monica Trust a registered charity is promoting the site to provide high-quality housing while generating income to support the charity’s wider work.
The development is designed to be a sustainable extension to the town, emphasising connectivity and environmental integration.
The project includes a commitment to 30% affordable housing, offering options such as social rent, shared ownership, and discounted market homes.
The southern portion of the site is designated as open space, featuring wildlife ponds, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), and extensive new planting to bolster local biodiversity.
A new play area is planned for the eastern side of the site, complemented by generous natural green space.
The plan prioritises active travel, with new pedestrian and cycle routes designed to link the development directly to the town centre and the National Cycle Route 63.
Designers have focused on retaining mature trees to protect the site's natural character and provide visual screening, ensuring the development complements its surroundings.
The site, located between existing housing to the north and west and the Burley Park Way bypass to the east, is described by developers as a highly sustainable location due to its proximity to local employment and services.
Vehicular access will be provided via a single point on Stamford Road. From a planning perspective, the land is located in Flood Zone 1, the category representing the lowest risk of flooding, and sits outside of any designated Conservation Areas.
What Happens Next?
Because this is an outline planning application, the current submission seeks permission for the principle of the development and defines the site's key parameters.
Should the outline application be approved, the developers will be required to submit a subsequent "Reserved Matters" application. This future stage will detail the specific design, layout, and appearance of the housing, which must then be formally agreed upon by the Rutland County Council.
As the proposal moves through the planning process, it represents a pivotal step in balancing the urgent need for new housing in Rutland with the careful stewardship of Oakham’s landscape and community character.
Planning – Planning Application Documents
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2026/0776/MAO
Outline planning application (all matters reserved except access) for the erection of up to 70 residential dwellings (including 30% affordable housing), with the creation of a new vehicular access from Stamford Road, pedestrian and cycle routes, drainage works, landscaping and public open space
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