Major road project in Melton enters final phase

Work on Melton’s new distributor road is set to enter its final phase. 

At nearly 4.5miles in length, the road is the biggest ever highways project carried out by Leicestershire County Council. 

Built by contractors Galliford Try on the council’s behalf, the scheme includes constructing six roundabouts and four bridges, the diversion of the River Eye Site of Special Scientific Interest and new cycling and walking infrastructure along its full length. 

Temporary road closures will take place in Melton over the quieter summer holiday period, so the final two roundabouts can be constructed as well as road resurfacing. 

Leader of Leicestershire County Council, Dan Harrison, said: “Not only is Melton Mowbray a fantastic place to live, work and grow up, its food heritage is fast making it a key tourist destination in our county.  

“This large-scale investment in Melton’s transport infrastructure will have a hugely positive impact and help support the town’s growth, now and into the future. It’s fantastic to see the project enter its final phase.” 

It is anticipated this will be the last round of closures needed. 

Motorists are being given advanced notice as there will be some overlap of these closures. The timing has been chosen to avoid the busiest travel periods, minimise weather-related delays and reduce costs, all while keeping the momentum of a project that remains on time and on track. 

Dan Harrison added: “We know that planned road closures this summer will mean some temporary travel disruption in and around the town and we’d like to thank everyone affected in advance for their patience. 

“In the longer-term, the new road will help to ease congestion in Melton’s busy town centre, reduce congestion, improve access to housing, leisure and employment hubs and keep HGVs away from unsuitable rural routes.”