Assurances Sought Over Future of Market Harborough Rewilding Project
Written by HFM News on 20th May 2026
Assurances are being sought over the future of a major rewilding project near Market Harborough after more than £700,000 in funding was withdrawn earlier this year.
The former leader of the council fears the new Conservative administration at Harborough District Council could scrap the scheme entirely.
The Conservative group says it is waiting for a full briefing on the plans, costs and potential risks to taxpayers before deciding its next steps.
The area of the project
The council-led project, in partnership with the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, aims to restore over 100 acres of land alongside the A6 and create a country park.
It was launched by former council leader Phil Knowles, who is now in opposition:
A tree planting event was held on the site in December
More than 1,200 people have signed a petition backing the scheme after funding was removed from the council’s budget in February following an amendment by Conservatives, who were then in opposition.
Council leader Simon Whelband spoke to HFM:
