International Men’s CiCLE Classic 2026 Essential Traffic and Travel Information

International Men’s CiCLE Classic 2026 Essential Traffic and Travel Information

The Men’s International CiCLE Classic is set to return on April 26, 2026, bringing elite cycling to the roads of Leicestershire and Rutland. To facilitate the race and ensure public safety, Leicestershire County Council Highways has approved a comprehensive Temporary Traffic Regulation Order affecting the Melton District, Harborough District, and Rutland.

Residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead for significant road closures and travel disruptions throughout the event.

Key Road Closures in Oakham

Major thoroughfares in Oakham will be subject to full closures to accommodate the race proceedings:

High Street: Entire length.

Market Place: Entire length.

Market Street: Entire length.

In addition to these closures, a "No Waiting or Loading" restriction will be strictly enforced on these three streets, as well as on Main Street in Wymondham.

Rolling Road Closures

To allow the peloton to move safely through the countryside, rolling road closures will be implemented across numerous villages. These closures will affect the "entire length" of various roads in the following areas:

Pickwell & Leesthorpe

Stapleford Rd, Pickwell Rd, Leesthorpe Rd, Church Lane, Main St, Stygate Lane.

Somerby & Owston

Town End, Oakham Rd, Owston Rd, Marefield Lane, Long Lane, Green Lane, Middle St.

Wymondham

Main St, Butt Lane, Melton Rd, Edmondthorpe Rd, Sewstern Lane.

Teigh & Market Overton

Edmondthorpe Rd, Ashwell Rd, Teigh Rd, Main St, Cottesmore Rd.

Oakham & Surrounds

Burley Park Way, Station Rd, Cold Overton Rd, Barleythorpe Rd, Catmos St, Uppingham Rd.

Note: This is a partial list. Numerous other rural links between these villages will also be affected by rolling closures .

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Oakham Town Council Takes Strategic Legal Step to Secure Victoria Hall’s Future, The financial relationship between Oakham Town Council (OTC) and the Victoria Hall private trust has involved several significant payments totally £37,000 and since 2024

Oakham Town Council Takes Strategic Legal Step to Secure Victoria Hall’s Future

The long-running efforts to revive Victoria Hall took a significant turn this week as Oakham Town Council moved to break a complex administrative deadlock. During their latest meeting, councillors voted to approve the funding of specialist legal fees, a move designed to finally resolve the murky ownership status of the historic High Street landmark.

The appointed solicitor will be tasked with a challenging brief untangling the legal knots surrounding a missing deed of ownership. This missing paperwork has long been the primary hurdle in stabilising the building’s future. By securing legal counsel, the council aims to formally petition the Charity Commission to install Oakham Town Council as the sole trustee of the Victoria Hall Charitable Trust, providing the clear authority needed to manage the site long-term.

While the legal strategy moves forward, the council also signaled its commitment to the building’s structural integrity by authorising the project’s architect to continue their work. This ensures that the technical planning and preservation strategy remain in motion, preventing the project from stalling entirely while the legalities are settled.

However, the council stopped short of beginning physical restoration. A proposal to appoint a contractor for immediate repairs was refused, with members opting for a more cautious financial approach. The consensus among the council appears to be that committing significant public funds to construction is premature until the Charity Commission officially confirms their status as trustees.

For the residents of Oakham, this means the wait continues. The council indicated that the question of repairs and the appointment of a contractor will be revisited once their legal standing is solidified. Until that time, the doors of Victoria Hall may remain closed, standing as a silent witness to the ongoing efforts to secure its place in the town’s future.

The financial relationship between Oakham Town Council (OTC) and the Victoria Hall private trust has involved several significant payments totally £37,000 and since 2024

Below is a breakdown of the funds granted and the professional fees paid as of April 2026

£3,000 Emergency "Bail Out" Provided as immediate financial assistance to prevent closure during a period of critical instability was awarded autumn 2024

£10,400 Grant Approved in September 2024 for essential short-term running costs, including utilities, cleaning, and maintenance for the winter period.

£500 Legal Consultation: Approved in January 2025 for initial advice from charity law specialists (Wellers Law) regarding the potential transfer of the trust to the Council.

£12,742 Boiler Replacement, Paid from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) in March 2025 to replace the building's failing heating system.

Oakham Town Council has paid Professional, Survey, and Legal Fees

£2958 Building Survey approved in January 2025 for an initial comprehensive survey of the building's condition. 

Later reports cite a total of approximately £2,800 spent on survey-related work.

In March 2026 £4,600.00 was paid to Anthony Collins Solicitors

Future Financial Commitments whilst the council has discussed and approved various sums for consultants such as £10,000 Specialist Consultant Fee: Proposed in September 2025 to assess the feasibility of a full takeover and to draft a phased, costed plan for the building's future. None of those fees have yet been paid,

The Council is currently debating a £312,650 refurbishment project (often referred to as the £300k lifeline). This project, funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy, aims to:

Reconfigure toilets and improve accessibility.

Renovate the Council Chamber and main entrance.

Address an estimated £237,000 in external repairs (windows and canopy) and £192,000 in internal renovations.

While these funds have been committed or spent to stabilise the hall, the public consultation on the permanent takeover and the £300,000 investment is only now being launched (April 2026). As noted by one council member, this public engagement is occurring well after significant taxpayer funds have already been utilised for the private trust's assets. 

Editor’s Note: The notice shown in the photo regarding Victoria Hall toilets is one that many visitors have likely encountered over the years. However, it serves as a timely reminder of a common misconception: Victoria Hall is a private trust and has never functioned as a public hall under local government control.

While its doors have long been sometimes open to the community, its governance remains independent. There is currently a growing hope within the community that Oakham Town Council will take the necessary steps to change this status, bringing the hall into public hands for the future.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Oakham Town Council Calls for 20mph Limit Following Pedestrian Tragedy

Oakham Town Council Calls for 20mph Limit Following Pedestrian Tragedy

By Local Democracy Reporter

Oakham Town Council has formally moved to transform the safety of the town’s streets, voting unanimously to request a 20mph speed limit following a recent tragedy.

In a poignant gesture of respect, the Town Council also confirmed it has placed a memorial wreath near the site of the fatal accident. The floral tribute serves as a quiet, somber reminder of the life lost and the urgent need for change that now drives local policy. 

The proposal, which was approved during the council's latest session, authorises the Chair and Clerk to send a formal letter to Rutland County Council (RCC). This correspondence will officially request that the county authority begins the technical assessments and public consultations necessary to implement a 20mph zone. By seeking a Traffic Regulation Order, the Town Council hopes to create a "calmer environment" that significantly reduces the risk and severity of future collisions.

The Town Council’s resolution emphasises a desire for "partnership working" with the county, offering local expertise to ensure any new limits are both practical for drivers and protective for pedestrians.

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To: Highways
Rutland County Council
Catmose House

Oakham 

Dear Andrew Tatt, 

Request for a 20 mph Speed Limit in Oakham 

At its meeting on 8th April 2026, Oakham Town Council resolved to support in principle the introduction of a 20 mph speed limit on appropriate streets within the town. 

The Council requests that Rutland County Council undertakes the necessary assessment, consultation and Traffic Regulation Order process to bring forward a scheme. A 20 mph environment would improve safety, support walking and cycling, and enhance Oakham’s historic town centre. 

The proposal aligns with national guidance and with approaches being taken in neighbouring market towns. 

Oakham Town Council would welcome partnership working with RCC, including support for engagement and communication. 

We look forward to discussing next steps with your officers. 

Yours sincerely,

Cllr Chris Nix. Chairman 

Chris Evans. Clerk

Oakham Town Council

A Fond Farewell Maison Six Lingerie Mill Street Oakham Announces Closure and Final Sale

A Fond Farewell Maison Six Lingerie Announces Closure and Final Sale

By Local News Desk

In a poignant announcement shared this week, Laura, the founder of the boutique Maison Six Lingerie, Mill Street Oakham, revealed that the business will be closing its doors. The news marks the end of a chapter for a shop that has become a staple for locals seeking quality, passion, and a personal touch.

In a message to her community, Laura described the decision as "incredibly difficult," citing the immense time, and energy she poured into the brand. While the closure brings a mix of emotions, Laura expressed optimism for the future, noting that she is ready to move forward into an exciting new journey.

"I want to say a huge, heartfelt thank you to all of my amazing customers who have supported me along the way," Laura shared. "Your kindness, loyalty, and encouragement have meant more than I can put into words."

For those who have frequented the boutique, there is one last opportunity to celebrate the brand. The shop’s final sale is now underway, offering a chance for supporters to pick up signature pieces before the doors close for good. We still have an amazing selection available and now with 20% off!

While the physical storefront may be closing, Laura’s message remained hopeful, reminding her loyal following that this isn’t a true goodbye, but rather the start of something new. Residents are encouraged to stop by, share a final well-wish, and take advantage of the closing discounts while stocks last.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Building Rutland’s Future A Journey of Heritage Transformation Rutland County Museum Until Monday 4 May 2026

Building Rutland’s Future A Journey of Heritage Transformation

Rutland County Museum Until Monday 4 May 2026

The Rutland County Museum is embarking on an ambitious transformation. This temporary exhibition invites you to explore the evolving story of England’s smallest county and discover the vision for turning the museum into a vibrant, modern cultural hub for the community.

The Exhibition Experience

The display bridges the gap between Rutland's past and its future, focusing on,

Meet the remarkable individuals who have shaped the museum over the last 60 years. 

From the founders and early supporters to the original owners of the objects in the collection, the exhibition highlights the human stories behind the glass cases.

See newly unearthed items found by local residents. These discoveries including insights from the world-famous "Rutland Sea Dragon" (Ichthyosaur) and the rare Roman Trojan War Mosaic offer fresh perspectives on the county's ancient history.

Preview the architectural and cultural plans designed to revitalise the museum space for the next generation.

Visitor Information

Location: Rutland County Museum, Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6HW

Admission: FREE

Museum Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Special Temporary Exhibitions: Coming Soon

Oakham Art Group Saturday 16 May – Saturday 13 June

Arts for Rutland (Adult) Open Saturday 11 July – Saturday 8 August

Northants & Rutland Open Studios Saturday 22 August – Saturday 19 September

For more information or to support the museum's transformation project, please contact us:

Web: rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk

Email: museum@rutland.gov.uk

Phone: 01572 758440

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Allegations of Financial Mismanagement Hit Oakham Town Council as Staff Member Reported to Police

Allegations of Financial Mismanagement Hit Oakham Town Council as Staff Member Reported to Police

A report has been made to Leicestershire Police regarding a member of the Oakham Town Council staff following an allegation concerning the authorisation of overtime payments. The report was filed after a current member of the council received a written communication from a former councillor containing claims of financial irregularities.

The correspondence alleges that a member of the council staff "has also been paying overtime over the last year or so to himself and other staff without Council knowledge." This statement suggests that internal procedures for the approval of additional pay may not have been followed in accordance with standard council oversight.

The current councillor who received the email and subsequently contacted the police has clarified that they are not personally aware of any wrongdoing. However, they stated that they felt a professional and civic duty to pass the information to the police, given the serious nature of the claims involving public funds.

The report does not constitute a finding of guilt, and no charges have been brought at this stage. Instead, the matter has been referred to the police to determine whether the claims hold merit and to ensure that all administrative and financial actions within the council have been conducted appropriately.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the council’s internal processes for payroll and expenditure. The referral to the police is a procedural step to ensure transparency, allowing an external body to review the claims made in the former councillor's correspondence. 

 For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Rutland County Council Unveils New ‘Crisis and Resilience Fund’ to Support Low-Income Households Cabinet Meeting Tuesday, 14th April, 2026 10.00 am

Rutland County Council Unveils New ‘Crisis and Resilience Fund’ to Support Low-Income Households Cabinet Meeting Tuesday, 14th April, 2026 10.00 am

By Local Democracy Reporter

Rutland County Council’s Cabinet will consider a report about a transformative new three-year programme designed to modernise local welfare and provide a robust safety net for the county’s most vulnerable residents.

The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which launched on April 1, 2026, replaces the previous Household Support Fund (HSF) and Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP). Unlike its predecessors, the new fund shifts focus from temporary pandemic-era relief to building long-term financial stability for individuals and communities.

The council will deliver support through four mandated categories to ensure both immediate relief and future prevention:

Rapid "cash-first" support for households facing sudden financial shocks, such as a loss of income or unexpected bills. The council aims for a 48-hour turnaround for urgent cases.

Targeted aid for those receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit who face shortfalls in rent or essential housing costs.

Investment in financial education, debt advice, and budget management to help residents avoid future crises.

Strengthening local support networks through multi-agency partnerships and outreach activities like the "Living Well" initiative.

Support is reserved for Rutland residents on a low income with less than £3,000 in savings. While "low income" is not strictly defined, council guidelines suggest thresholds such as an annual income of less than £17,600 for a couple with no children or £27,500 for a couple with two children, after housing costs.

The council has adopted a "cash-first" policy, issuing awards via secure text messages that can be redeemed at cash-zone pay points, though vouchers or physical goods like energy-efficient washing machines remain an option. Applications can be made online or via paper forms through Citizens Advice Rutland.

A key priority for the cabinet is ensuring no child in the county goes hungry during school holidays. The council plans to use the "Low-Income Family Tracker" (LIFT) to proactively identify and invite families in need to claim support. Officials also hope that by investing in resilience, families will eventually be better equipped to budget for school holiday periods independently.

The Cabinet will also consider A Museum Policy Update Space for Giants

In a separate move, the Cabinet will consider the Rutland County Museum Collections Development Policy to accommodate the county’s recent world-class archaeological finds.

The revised policy provides a framework for integrating the 10-metre Ichthyosaur the largest of its kind found in Europe and the unique Ketton Roman Mosaic into the museum’s permanent collection. To make room for these "giants," the museum will move large agricultural equipment to off-site storage and may ethically dispose of items that are duplicates or lack significant local relevance.

Cabinet reports stressed that any proceeds from the sale of de-accessioned items will be legally restricted to the long-term sustainability and development of the museum’s collection.

CABINET MEETING

https://rutlandcounty.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=133&MId=3104

Tuesday, 14 April 2026 at 10.00 am

COUNCIL CHAMBER, CATMOSE, OAKHAM, LE15

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Questions Mount Over "Digital Witch Hunt" Costs at Oakham Town Council

Questions Mount Over "Digital Witch Hunt" Costs at Town Council

A cloud of controversy has once again settled over Oakham Town Council following revelations of a a payment to a long-term IT contractor, allegedly aimed at unmasking a "whistleblower" within the council ranks.

Documents reveal that on March 13, 2026, the Council paid Millennium Computer Services for an investigation into the leak of a confidential email. The email in question originated from the Rutland County Council Monitoring Officer and reportedly detailed concerns regarding the "poor conduct" of the Town Council.

Despite the public expenditure, the results of this digital forensic search remain shrouded in mystery. 

Sources close to the council confirm that no formal report has been issued to members explaining:

What specific methods were used to track the leak.

Whether the investigation was successful in identifying a culprit.

The legal basis for monitoring internal communications to suppress a report on council conduct.

The recent invoice is just one of seven payments made to Millennium Computer Services over the last month, totaling £835.90.

For years, the relationship between the Council and the IT firm has been a point of friction during  meetings. Critics argue that the payment reports provided by the office and subsequently approved by the council frequently lack the "clear details" necessary for proper fiscal oversight.

The recent batch of payments also highlighted a surprising administrative charge. Included in the £835.90 total was a fee for a physical memory stick, used specifically to hand over CCTV footage to the police regarding an alleged burglary at the council officer by a former Councillor.

While the council is required to assist law enforcement, the decision to bill this through an external contractor rather than utilising standard office supplies has raised eyebrows and concerns have been voiced about "nickel-and-diming" the public purse.

Cllr Adam Lowe formally raised the need for a full review of the Millennium Computer Services contract is from the meeting held on January 12, 2022. This did not happen.

The request was detailed in Finance Report No. 2022/03, authored by Cllr Lowe and Cllr Orchard, titled "Awarding Contracts with Transparency".

The report expressed concerns regarding robust financial controls and transparency in public spending.

It noted an "overdue review" of several contracts, explicitly naming Millennium Computers alongside K&K Window Services and Lend a Hand.

Cllr Lowe emphasised that because Millennium Computer Services was responsible for "computer security and back-ups," a formal contract or agreement was a "crucial operational need".

He proposed that the Council ask the office to review ALL contracts and regular payees to clarify agreement details and expiry dates, suggesting this information be presented to the Full Council in a spreadsheet format. This also never happened.

an even earlier mention occurred in the minutes of June 8, 2016, where  Cllr Lowe was also present.

 For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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OAKHAM CASTLE TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING OVER CONTROVERSIAL 110-HOME BARLEYTHORPE DEVELOPMENT

OAKHAM CASTLE TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING OVER CONTROVERSIAL 110-HOME BARLEYTHORPE DEVELOPMENT

The historic Great Hall of Oakham Castle is set to become the backdrop for a pivotal planning battle this May, as an appeal lodged by Bowbridge Land Ltd goes before a government inspector.

The appeal follows the developer's outline planning application for up to 110 dwellings and associated infrastructure on land situated to the west of Main Road in Barleythorpe. While the proposal is in "outline" form meaning specific details like design and layout are reserved for later the fundamental question of whether the site should be developed at all now rests in the hands of the Planning Inspectorate.

The appeal will be conducted via an Informal Hearing, a process designed to allow a structured discussion led by the Inspector, rather than the more legalistic and adversarial atmosphere of a Public Inquiry.

Inspector: A. McClone
Date: Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Time: 10:00 am

Venue: Oakham Castle, Market Place, Oakham

The hearing is scheduled to last one day and will be held as an in-person event. Rutland County Council recently issued a corrected notice for the event after an administrative error in a previous email left residents without the specific date and time of the proceedings.

Members of the public are invited to attend the hearing to observe the arguments. Crucially, those who wish to voice their opinions on the 110-home scheme may be allowed to do so at the Inspector’s discretion.

Residents wishing to speak are advised to attend the opening of the event at 10:00 am to signal their intent to the Inspector. To assist with logistics, the Council has requested that anyone planning to attend email planningappeals@rutland.gov.uk with their name, contact details, and their interest in the case (e.g., local neighbour or interested party).

The Council has confirmed that Oakham Castle is equipped with facilities for people with disabilities. Residents requiring specific information regarding access or the venue are encouraged to contact Planning Support at 01572 722577 (Option 3).

For those wishing to review the case files ahead of the hearing, all appeal documents including the original plans and the Council’s reasons for the initial decision are available on the Rutland County Council planning portal.

By entering reference 2025/0024/APPEAL into the online applications search, residents can track the evidence submitted by both Bowbridge Land Ltd and the local authority.

The Inspector’s final decision, which will determine whether the fields to the west of Main Road are transformed into a major housing estate, will be published online following the conclusion of the hearing.

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LIFELINE FOR RURAL VILLAGES AS RUTLAND COUNTY UNVEILS NEW COMMUNITY GRANT SCHEME

LIFELINE FOR RURAL VILLAGES AS RUTLAND UNVEILS NEW COMMUNITY GRANT SCHEME

Rutland County Council has officially launched a targeted Small Grants Programme, providing a significant financial boost to the voluntary and community organisations that form the backbone of the county’s rural life. The initiative aims to empower grassroots groups to tackle some of the region’s most pressing social challenges, from rural isolation to the rising need for local mental health support.

The programme, a collaborative venture funded by Public Health, Rutland’s Integrated Care Board (ICB), and the County Council, offers grants ranging between £500 and £2,000. These funds are specifically earmarked for projects that foster community-led health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on reaching residents in the county's more remote areas.

By investing in the voluntary sector (VCS), the council hopes to strengthen local volunteer networks and improve access to welfare support for vulnerable residents. The funding criteria prioritize projects that reduce loneliness, build financial resilience, and create stronger social connections across Rutland’s unique landscape.

Councillor Tim Smith, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, emphasized that the programme recognizes the vital overlap between professional care and community spirit. "We’re fortunate in Rutland that we have many community groups and volunteers who make it their mission to help people," Cllr Smith stated. "Many of these groups are working to achieve the same outcomes as public health and care services. Like us, they want to help people stay healthy and well."

He added that the grants are intended to give these local heroes a "boost," allowing them to expand their reach and provide a higher level of support to those who might otherwise fall through the cracks of traditional service delivery.

The application window is brief, requiring interested groups to act quickly. Official applications will open on Monday, May 4, 2026, and will remain open until Friday, May 22, 2026. To ensure the best chance of success, the Council has allowed for a one-month preparatory period starting now, during which organisations can submit questions and refine their bids. All successful projects must be delivered within the 2026/27 financial year.

Local groups and registered charities operating within the county are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria immediately. Full details on the application process and project requirements can be found on the Rutland County Council website at: www.rutland.gov.uk/smallgrants

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How Leicestershire and Rutland’s Rural Policing Team Hit a £4 Million Milestone

How Leicestershire and Rutland’s Rural Policing Team Hit a £4 Million Milestone

In  quiet villages of Leicestershire and Rutland, a quiet war of attrition is being fought and won. The dedicated Rural Policing Team for the region recently announced a monumental achievement in their ongoing mission, confirming that they have officially surpassed £4 million in recovered stolen property since the unit’s inception. This milestone represents far more than a financial figure; it marks the return of vital machinery, vehicles, and equipment to the farmers and landowners who form the backbone of the local economy.

The momentum behind this success has been particularly palpable throughout the current year. In 2026 alone, the team has already clawed back nearly £700,000 worth of assets. From high-value plant machinery and agricultural tractors to specialized trailers and niche farming equipment, the variety of recovered goods reflects the increasingly sophisticated nature of rural organized crime. For a small business or a family-run farm, the loss of a single piece of essential machinery can stall operations for weeks, making these recoveries a critical lifeline for rural livelihoods.

The team’s effectiveness stems from a multifaceted approach that refuses to treat the countryside as a secondary priority. By combining high-visibility proactive patrols with sophisticated, intelligence-led operations, officers are able to disrupt criminal networks before they can move stolen goods out of the county. Recognising that criminals do not respect administrative boundaries, the team has also prioritised cross-border collaboration, working seamlessly with neighboring forces to track and intercept stolen property as it traverses the region.

However, the police are quick to point out that this £4 million success story is a shared victory. The "eyes and ears" of the rural community remain the most potent weapon in their arsenal. The synergy between law enforcement and local residents who continue to report suspicious activity and secure their property with modern tracking technology has created a hostile environment for thieves.

Every recovered trailer and every returned tractor serves as a reminder that rural crime is being met with a professional, relentless response. As the Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Policing Team looks toward the future, their message remains clear: through continued vigilance and community partnership, the protection of the countryside and the livelihoods within it remains their primary mission.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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