Significant progress has been made on a Midlands transport scheme as Rutland County Council appoints leading regional contractor Stepnell to deliver one of its UK Government Funding projects. 

Local Link, as it will be known, will facilitate the Council's newly launched rural transport initiative and the reimagination of the current Jules House site in Oakham into a brand-new community space. These plans are delivered under the Rural Innovation in Action scheme collaboratively with Melton Borough Council as part of its combined £22.95m UK Government Funding.  

Complete construction partner Stepnell has been appointed to oversee all aspects of the building work, due to the team's diverse scope of abilities and strong regional track record. 

Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment and Communities at Rutland County Council, said: "The first phase of Local Link, including the introduction of some new demand responsive and fixed-route public transport services, launched in March 2025 with a lot of success and high user numbers. Expanding on this success, Stepnell will be key to helping us achieve our ambitions for new community and transport hub in the heart of Oakham – one that locates expert health, wellbeing and community support along a direct route for affordable and accessible public transport. 

Stepnell has been appointed to complete the extensive interior and exterior transformation of the Jules House site (Photo: Cartwright Agency)

"Improving the travel opportunities for locals and visitors in rural areas is key to future-proofing our regional economy and growing it, as well as maintaining the health and wellbeing of our residents, wherever they may live. This latest appointment will see exciting works take place to harness the potential in Rutland, Melton and the surrounding areas." 

In addition to the transport aspect, Stepnell will be responsible for the extensive interior and exterior transformation of the Jules House site. Once complete, this will be extended to provide lettable office space and community group access. The project has been procured through Procure Partnerships Framework. 

Tom Sewell, director at Stepnell, said: "With an extensive track record of delivering town centre schemes through public sector frameworks for local authorities across the East Midlands, we are strongly positioned to support the development of this integral hub that will enhance community and connection across Rutland. 

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"As we prepare to start the project in this key area for Stepnell, we'll be working closely with local businesses to maximise the value delivered. Based on the end of January, we are currently achieving a 82.79% local spend within 30 miles in addition to delivering a comprehensive programme of careers support and community initiatives, while also ensuring minimal local disruption for residents, businesses and visitors alike." 

Tom Woolley, key account manager (East of England) at Procure Partnerships Framework, said: "We were delighted to support Rutland County Council in procuring Stepnell to deliver Local Link. At its core, the project will improve opportunities for local people and drive economic growth, not only through the nature of the project itself, but through Stepnell's target of 95% local supply chain spend. This project is an excellent example of how strategic procurement can deliver both high-quality construction outcomes and meaningful, local impact." 

The works are due to start at the end of the month and be completed by the end of Summer 2026.  

To learn more about the plans or the wider Rural Innovation in Action scheme, visit: ruralinnovationinaction.co.uk.