Rutland Roundup Leadership Shifts, a Farewell to the Times, and the Ospreys Return
It’s been a monumental week for Rutland, marked by a major leadership shift at the County Council, a bittersweet farewell to a long standing local newspaper, and the official start of spring at Rutland Water.
Here is your round-up of the key stories from across the county for the week of March 12–19, 2026.
In a surprise announcement on March 18, Councillor Gale Waller confirmed she is stepping down as Leader of Rutland County Council. Having led the authority since 2023, Cllr Gale Waller cited a desire to spend more time with her family following the birth of her grandchild. She will remain a ward member for Normanton. Read More Here
Deputy Leader Andrew Johnson has taken over as Acting Leader until a formal vote at the next full council meeting on March 26. Read More Here
Amid ongoing government consultations regarding the merger of local authorities, there was a major win for county identity. The government has provided "written assurances" that even if administrative changes occur in 2028, Rutland will retain its historic name and ceremonial status (including its own Lord-Lieutenant and High Sheriff). Rutland County Council is currently backing the "North City South" merger proposal, which they argue best preserves the county’s rural voice.
A significant chapter in local journalism closes today, March 19, as the final print edition of the Rutland Times hits the shelves. The paper, which began in 1977, is being retired due to rising costs and a shift toward digital reading. Moving forward, local coverage will be integrated into a new weekly Rutland and Stamford Mercury print edition, while the Times will maintain a digital presence. Read More Here
The 2026 osprey season has officially begun. On Sunday, March 15, the first osprey of the year identified as female 25(10)—was spotted landing at the Manton Bay nest. While she isn't the "resident" female (Maya), her arrival is the traditional signal that the breeding season is underway. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Rutland Osprey Project. Read More Here
The trout fishing season got off to a "positive start" this past weekend. Anglers reported high numbers of silver overwintered Rainbows and several large Browns (up to 7lb) being caught near Barnsdale Creek and Old Hall Bay.
Looking ahead:
March 26: Deadline for residents to have their say on the Local Government Reorganisation consultation.
March 26: Full Council meeting to elect a new Leader.
March 30: The rollout of the new weekly food waste collections begins across the county.
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