Council issues update on highly anticipated bridge repair

Melton Borough Council have confirmed that the bridge order and schedule of works is underway for the replacement of a damaged bridge in Melton Country Park.

The council say that the repairs should have an anticipated build time of 6-8 weeks which will be good news for residents who use the bridge on their routes around the park.

The bridge has been out of action after it was damaged by flood waters in January 2025 following heavy rain and snowfall in the Melton Borough.

Lydia Rusling, Director for Place and Prosperity at Melton Borough Council said: “We are working closely with our contractors to deliver the new, accessible bridge in Melton Country Park. Our officers met with our contractors last week to review plans and carry out some preparation work at the site.

The damaged bridge in Melton Country Park pictured in January 2025. Photo: NEMM

“We can confirm the bridge order and schedule of works is underway, with an anticipated build time of 6-8 weeks. We are awaiting a permit to start works from the Environment Agency (EA) before installation can take place. This is likely to be issued shortly. We appreciate everyone’s patience whilst we undertake this essential work. On receipt of the EA permit we will be able to provide a more definitive timeframe for completion, and will keep residents updated through our website and social media channels.”

The bridge had been insured for £150,000 but the insurers offered only £80,000 for repairs and because a full replacement was required, the council will need to help fund the remainder.

Councillors agreed to allocate £200,000 to the project with the council likely to pay up to £125,000 of that with the remainder coming from a number of other sources including Section 106 money and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

When NEMM contacted the Environment Agency last week for comment they confirmed they received a Flood Risk Activity Permit application for the repairs on 4th March 2026.

The spokesperson confirmed that this permit was granted to the applicant on 22nd May 2026.