Roadside retail development replaces former historic coaching inn

Ram Jam Inn, Streeton, in 1950s

Godwin Developments has announced the practical completion of Ram Jam Services, a new roadside retail development in Rutland.

Rutland’s new roadside development will host three well-known national and international food and beverage brands.

The site will feature Brightside, a diner concept from Loungers, along with drive-thru outlets for Wendy’s and Costa Coffee.

Located alongside the main route from Peterborough to Grantham, the development aims to become a roadside destination, adjacent to a petrol station and a new bakery.

The inn awaiting demolition

The Ram Jam Inn was a historic on the west side of the A1, about 12 miles south of Grantham.

 It was frequented by highwayman Dick Turpin in the 18th century, and it is claimed one of his confidence tricks inspired the pub’s name. The pub closed in 2013, and was finally demolished in the early 2020s.

The pub was originally called the Winchelsea Arms,^] but became known as the Ram Jam Inn by the early 19th century, Turpin was a temporary lodger at the inn, and resided there when he first found notoriety. He showed his landlady, Mrs Spring, how to draw mild and bitter ale from a single barrel, stating “ram one thumb in here whilst I make a hole .

Simon Handslip, managing director of commercial development at Godwin, said: “We are delighted to have completed the construction of Ram Jam Services, one of the many roadside retail schemes we are currently delivering across the country.

“It has also been a real pleasure to work with the teams at Brightside, Costa Coffee and Wendy’s, and we look forward to visiting their brand-new, fully-fitted stores very shortly.

Ketan Patel, construction director, of commercial at Godwin, said: “We are very pleased with the successful completion of this project, thanks to the efforts of our dedicated professional team. Their hard work and commitment have been key to delivering this outstanding result.”

The new development

Intium Construction acted as the main contractor, while Cummings took on the role of the employer’s agent. RG+P was the architect on the scheme, HSP handled civil and structural engineering, The Engineering Practice was responsible for mechanical & electrical, Pivotal managed the utility connections and Simply Planning dealt with all planning matters.