Finishing touches under way on Melton’s new distributor road

Finishing touches are now being made to Melton’s new distributor road ahead of its opening later this year.

The final stages include planting hundreds of saplings through a £1.2 million biodiversity project, alongside completing local walking and cycling paths around the route.

English oak, field maple, beech and lime, are some of the species of trees that have already been planted on the site, with some already up to two metres tall, which will help the new road blend into the rural landscape and support wildlife. 

New trees and hedgerows will also absorb carbon, help manage surface water and reduce noise and air pollution from traffic. 

The A606 Nottingham Road roundabout following it's re-opening. Photo: NEMM

Throughout the construction process, contractors Galliford Try have used their practical skills to support several local community and charity causes. These include a range of projects that have made a real difference across Melton Mowbray.

The team resurfaced John Ferneley College’s car park free of charge, created a horticulture space for Sunny Skies and decorated Pepper’s mental health centre ready for opening.

The project team also welcomed a group of local SEND children to the distributor road site to learn about careers in construction. In addition, the scheme supported the Air Ambulance Service’s Melton Mowbray charity superstore, The Hanger, by refurbishing the rear car park and repairing potholes and damaged access areas. 

Councillor Adam Tilbury planting trees on the site. Photo: Leicestershire County Council

Melton’s residents have seen Leicestershire County Council’s biggest ever road project take shape over the past three years. Sections of all six roundabouts are now open to traffic, major bridges have been installed and surfacing and landscaping work is well underway. 

This 4.5‑mile route is being built by Galliford Try on the county council’s behalf and aims to ease traffic in Melton’s busy town centre. It will also boost local jobs and the economy, as well as supporting new housing delivery. 

Councillor Adam Tilbury, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Despite complex ground conditions, significant archaeological finds and weather events such as Storm Babet and Storm Henk, the team kept the project moving forward and it remains on schedule for completion.

“Improving our road network is important but so is protecting nature and that's why we're planting hundreds of trees."

“We’re also pleased that this project has been able to give something back to local organisations along the way. We’re grateful to residents and businesses for their patience as the scheme has progressed.” 

“This new road is a major investment in Melton’s future. It will cut congestion, make journeys more reliable and help the town grow.” 

The county council is also preparing to launch a public vote on the road’s official name in February. Residents will be able to choose from a shortlist and the successful name will be announced shortly before the opening.  

The new Melton distributor road is expected to open around Easter 2026 and will include a footpath around the new road that can be used as a new exercise route for residents.