Wild Rutland is inviting residents to a public engagement exhibition at Victoria Hall in Oakham, on Wednesday 13 March from 2pm to 7pm, to learn more about the proposed wildlife and British nature reserve.

The team behind Wild Rutland want to give residents the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts on the project which will increase the biodiversity of the site and allow access to this currently private parkland.

Whilst conservation and improving biodiversity of the historic Humphry Repton designed parkland will be at the core of Wild Rutland’s aims, tourism will also be a factor that will bring economic benefit to the town and wider county.

Planning permission will be sought for the new conservation-inspired visitor attraction, which will bring together heritage, nature, wildlife, play and adventure in Oakham.

CEO of Wild Rutland Hugh Vere Nicoll believes the change of land use will mean Burley Farms can be protected for generations to come. He said: “Our dream is to open a woodland wonder that will take you on a British wildlife safari of discovery.

“Many country estates across the UK are diversifying the way they manage their land in order to remain self-sufficient, be it through housing developments or renewable energy, and whilst Wild Rutland will bring changes to the way people interact with the parkland the local biodiversity and nature will benefit as a result of these proposed changes.”

“The Hanbury family have farmed this land for centuries and regenerative farming practices are being introduced to maintain the landscape. Wildflower meadows, the measured introduction of native tree species and indigenous animals will work holistically to improve the ecology of the area and in turn create opportunities for insect, bird and reptile diversity to flourish,” Hugh added.

Wild Rutland’s team understand the importance of access to nature and intend for the project to be shaped by community consultation and collaboration at all stages of the development.

Hugh Vere Nicoll will be present at the public engagement exhibition along with the architects behind the masterplanning.

Anyone interested is invited to drop in between 2pm and 7pm at Victoria Hall, 39 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AH.

A pre-planning application for a 1000-acre nature reserve at Burley Farms was sent to Rutland County Council in December and a full proposal will be submitted later this year.