Rutland County Council asks residents for views on new cultural hub at Rutland County Museum

Rutland residents are being asked to have their say on shaping a new cultural and civic centre at the county’s museum.

Rutland County Council’s cabinet signed off plans last month to begin design work on the remodelling of the museum in Oakham’s town centre, in order to house the prehistoric ichthyosaur found at Rutland Water and also exhibit digitally a Roman mosaic found near Ketton.

As part of the plans, which are expected to cost more than £7m, the council’s civic chamber will also be relocated from nearby Catmose House and into the building. The office staff could be located to Oakham Enterprise Park.

Coun Paul Browne (Lib Dem), cabinet member for economic development, said: “Rutland County Museum is an important part of our heritage, and we want the community to help shape its future. Our aim is to create a space that works for the Rutland community while also attracting new visitors.

"This consultation is the first step in our engagement with the public, and we encourage as many people as possible to take part in the online survey. Their feedback will help us understand what people value about the museum and what they would like to see as it evolves.”

Lawrence Fenelon, chairperson of Friends of Rutland County Museum and Oakham Castle, said: "The museum is a vital part of our region’s heritage, preserving and showcasing stories that link us to our shared history. As supporters of the museum, we are committed to its growth and future success. We hope that through this consultation residents of Rutland will support our efforts to demonstrate the history and heritage of Rutland, whatever the future holds for our county. "

Early plans include the globally significant Rutland Ichthyosaur skeleton - Britain’s largest and most complete fossil of its kind - taking centre stage at the museum. The council is signing off a legal agreement with Anglian Water to take ownership of the fossil, which was found in 2021. It can then be added to the museum collection and be conserved.

The project is backed by £2 million of the £22.95 million in Levelling Up Funding awarded jointly to Rutland and Melton in 2022 for a number of projects. RCC is also seeking additional funding for further restoration and expansion through the heritage lottery fund.

An online survey has been launched and can be found at www.rutland.gov.uk/museum until April 27.