Plans for Wild Rutland, brand new conservation-inspired visitor attraction in Burley, hopes to bring £12,000,000 per year to the county's local economy.

The plans, which have been submitted to Rutland County Council, would build then 1,000-acre British safari experience in the farmland, parkland and woods between Oakham, Rutland Water and Burley Wood.

According to Wild Rutland, their plan is 'an ambitious and visionary new conservation and wildlife-led visitor attraction in the heart of the English countryside.'

They claim the park 'is set to delivery significant long-term economic benefits for Rutland, stimulate business growth and create substantial new employment and training opportunities for the surrounding communities.'

The plans that were submitted to Rutland County Council earlier this month outlined ambitious plans for a 'first-of-its-kind visitor experience that enables nature lovers to experience the wonder of British wildlife within a picturesque rural setting, whilst also protecting the indigenous species that live there - allowing them to thrive.'

100-acre site proposed for Wild Rutland (Photo: Gillespies)

Aside from creating a space for ecological conservation, Wild Rutland also claims it will welcome approximately 335,000 visits per year, generating more footfall and spending in the local area.

They hope to build on the growth of the visitor economy Rutland has seen in recent years, as well as creating 75 direct jobs with numerous part-time, indirect and supply chain roles.

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Hugh Vere Nicoll, CEO of Wild Rutland, said: Rutland is a county of exceptional natural beauty, as well as a host of fantastic restaurants, cafes and businesses.

'Wild Rutland aims will support the county's economy ecosystem by encouraging visitors to stay longer in Rutland and giving them an opportunity to experience what the country has to offer.

'The plans for Wild Rutland were developed in close consultation with local businesses in Oakham to ensure that the project benefits everyone.

'We are committed to working closely with residents, local businesses, and the council throughout the development of the project and once its open to the public.

Plans for Wild Rutland have been submitted Rutland County Council (Photo: Wild Rutland)

'Our goal is to create something the whole community can feel part of and be proud of.'

However, residents have already raised concerns that Wild Rutland will worsen existing problems with infrastructure, parking and traffic.

Residents worry that already limited parking in Oakham, small country roads and congested town centre will only be exacerbated by tourists visiting Wild Rutland.

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The planning application is currently under review by Rutland County Council.

Click here to view it on the council's website.

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