An Oakham local hopes to provide the first luxury green 'ECO Tourism' accommodation in Rutland, and has the backing of Alicia Kearns, the Rutland and Melton MP. 

Ashley Dennis, Managing Director of Forest Rooms Ltd. has spoken to Oakham Nub News about his desire to build a collection of environmentally friendly retreats in woodland between Manton and Wing. 

If approved by Rutland County Council, Forest Rooms will provide forest retreats that are "totally off-grid" for tourists hoping to explore the wonders of Rutland, with unique, innovative accommodation. 

Image credit: Forest Rooms.

Managing Director, Ashley Dennis, is a lover of Rutland, the driving force behind this new project, as well as being the designer of the green retreats. 

He explained: "The forest retreats are totally off-grid so will put zero strain on the environment, making them fully sustainable and energy efficient. They will also be the first luxury green 'ECO Tourism' project in Rutland.

"The retreats themselves have been designed so that they are so well insulated they will require virtually no energy to run them. The whole project has been carefully considered and will be providing a holistic retreat in a natural woodland setting for the benefit of relaxation, therapy and wellness.

"I am a big believer in the healing energy of nature and in trees in particular. So the whole ethos of Forest Rooms is about relaxing, recharging your batteries and taking in the energy of the woodland. Whether that's walking around the private woodland paths or relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub."

The woodland location for this proposal can be found in between Manton and Wing in a patch of forest called Pippin Wood, named after Ashley's chocolate Labrador.

Pippin. Image credit: Forest Rooms Ltd.

He explained: "I had a stroke about 16 months ago and was rushed to hospital. I lost the whole use of my left side and I am still recovering now. But found walking round the woodland with my dog Pippin was really helpful in my recovery. Which is another reason I am passionate about the project."

The development has been supported by Rutland and Melton's MP, and Mr Dennis hopes that the project will be approved in the following weeks.

He said: "The development is fully supported by our MP Alicia Kearns as well as a number of councillors I have spoken and to. It will be great asset to Rutland, bringing in discerning tourists and has great green ECO credentials. So hopefully will get approved by Rutland Council."

If passed by the planning committee, Mr Dennis hopes that the build will get underway this year, ready for guests in 2025.

Follow the progress of this project on the Forest Rooms Facebook Page.