Residents in Melton Mowbray are being given a rare chance to help shape the town’s future by choosing the name of a major new road set to open next month.
The 4.5-mile North and East Melton Mowbray Distributor Road (NEMMDR), delivered by Galliford Try on behalf of Leicestershire County Council, is the largest transport investment ever made by the authority.
Picture credit: Leicestershire County Council
Due to open in May, the new route is designed to divert traffic — particularly heavy goods vehicles — away from Melton’s congested town centre. The scheme is also expected to improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, while creating better connections between the north and east of the town.
Council leaders say the road will make existing routes safer, reduce pollution and enhance the town centre, benefiting both residents and local businesses. It will also improve access to key destinations including John Ferneley College, Twinlakes Park and surrounding villages, as well as supporting planned housing growth.
In the lead-up to the opening, the county council will be engaging with the community to share more about the project — and is inviting residents to vote on a name for the new road.
A shortlist of options has been drawn up following consultation with local politicians, community representatives and council officers, and in line with official road-naming guidance. The names reflect elements of Melton Mowbray’s heritage, history and landscape.
Shortlisted names include:
- Farrier Way
- Lazars Way
- Military Way
- Pork Pie Way
- River Eye Road
- Veteran Road
- Victory Road
- Wolds Way
- Wreake Road
Councillor Adam Tilbury, cabinet lead member for highways and transport at Leicestershire County Council, said the opening of the road marked a significant milestone for the town.
He said: “We want residents to be part of this milestone. Melton Mowbray’s new distributor road marks a significant moment for the town, thanks to the council’s biggest ever transport investment, and we want the community to share in that achievement.
“We’ve brought together a shortlist of names that celebrate Melton’s heritage and landscape. Now we’re inviting people to get involved, learn more about the project and tell us which name they feel best represents this new chapter.”
Melton Borough Council acting leader Councillor Margaret Glancy said the authority was pleased to have supported delivery of the scheme.
She added: “We understand how important this new road is to our communities. It’s been a long journey, but we are glad we have been able to work with and support the county council to deliver this major infrastructure and investment project within our borough.
“It is a significant achievement and, once opened, the new road will help to ease congestion in Melton Mowbray’s busy town centre, and deliver the growth in our adopted Local Plan.
“We are keen for our residents to have their say on this important investment into the local area, and we encourage everyone to take part in the survey and help to choose a name that reflects Melton’s character and heritage.”
To have your say, visit: https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/have-your-say/current-engagement/naming-the-north-and-east-melton-mowbray-distributor-road
