The RIIA Roundup – January 2025
Created following the awarding of £22.95 million UK Government Funding, Rural Innovation in Action (RIIA) is a programme of work jointly delivered by Rutland County Council and Melton Borough Council, to breathe new life into the local economy.
Keep reading for the latest updates across all RIIA projects and what to expect from us in 2025.
Stockyard strides forward
In November 2024, GF Tomlinson hosted an incredibly successful ‘Meet the Supplier’ event – this created a chance for local suppliers and sub-contractors to learn about how to get involved in the Stockyard redevelopment and meet the project team.
From those specialising in groundwork, roofing, brickwork, or any other trade, it was the perfect opportunity to connect with more than 100 people who are equally keen to support this exciting project.
Weren’t able to attend but want to find out more? Email supplychainpartners@gftomlinson.co.uk or call the team on 01332 342202.
Giving back to the environment
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is rightfully a mandatory requirement. It ensures developments have a positive impact on biodiversity and habitats are left in a measurably better state than they were before.
Across the projects in the RIIA programme, BNG is being considered in the scheme from the outset. For some sites, such as our project on Cold Overton Road, we’re utilising cross-project capabilities to ensure effective biodiversity is achieved, by utilising the Medi-Tech land to create fantastically diverse wildlife opportunities. This is just one of the benefits of such a far-reaching scheme of work.
Keep your eyes peeled for more information about our BNG plans as work progresses on all RIIA projects.
Feedback from the community
In the latter stages of 2024, the RIIA team met with both the Youth Forum and Disabled Youth Forum in Rutland to discuss plans for the future of the bus routes.
It’s incredibly important to us that we gather feedback from a range of demographics that will be using the new bus services funded by the RIIA programme.
The two sessions were overwhelmingly positive, generating lots of great ideas that the team will continue to consider as the project progresses.
Looking ahead to 2025
With the new year upon us, it’s easy to see the strides made in 2024 for the RIIA programme – from submitting permission for multiple projects to engaging with the local community in our plans.
This is set to continue in 2025, with massive progress expected on all four projects.
We are working towards construction programmes beginning at multiple sites, making a significant step in progress for the RIIA scheme.
Keep an eye out for more updates on our social channels or find more information about each of the projects here.
