Rutland County Council Approves Queen Elizabeth II Statue
Rutland County Council's Planning Committee met this evening and approved the installation of a statue of her late majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The statue will be located near Rutland County Library.
Cllr Joyce Lucas BEM spoke as a member of the public and a royalist in favour of the application. She ensured the committee understood the benefits the statue would bring to Oakham, tourism, and the economy.
Rosemarie Whittaker spoke against the planning application, expressing concerns about traffic safety and parking. Cllr Farmer Brown questioned her about available evidence, but she felt the question was inappropriately directed towards her and that it was a matter for the highways department to address.
Dr Sarah Furness, the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, spoke in favour of the application, highlighting the Queen's long and distinguished reign and her service to the people of Rutland.
After considering all of the evidence, the Planning Committee voted to approve the application.
Residents React
Local residents have mixed reactions to the news of the approved statue. Some residents are excited to have a permanent memorial to the Queen in Rutland, while others are concerned about the statue and the potential impact on traffic and parking.
"I think it's a wonderful idea to have a statue of the Queen in Oakham," said one resident. "She was a great monarch, and she deserves to be remembered. I'm sure it will be a popular tourist attraction."
People often get confused about what the two council are responsible for as one resident said
"I'm not sure it's the best use of public money," said another resident. "There are other things that need to be done in Oakham, like fixing the roads and improving public services."
Rutland County Council has not provided any funding for this statue project.
Oakham Town Council gave £5,000 It is not responsible for fixing roads or improving public service. It has little purpose.
"I'm worried about the impact on traffic and parking," said a third resident. "The library is already a busy area, and I can't imagine how many more people will be coming to see the statue."
Overall, the public reaction to the news of the approved statue is divided. It remains to be seen how the statue will impact the local community once it is installed.
All I will say thank goodness its not Maggie, Boris or one of the others.
A statue of Queen Elizabeth II will be unveiled in Oakham, Rutland The statue is being created by Hywel Pratley, A replica is on display at Oakham Castle Oakham Rutland.
