Residents are invited to take up a once in a generation opportunity to choose the name of Melton Mowbray’s new distributor road, which is due to open in May.
The 4.5mile North and East Melton Mowbray Distributor Road (NEMMDR), delivered by Galliford Try on behalf of Leicestershire County Council, represents the county council’s biggest ever investment in the county’s transport network.
Once open, the new road will provide an alternative route for motor traffic — particularly HGVs — helping to ease congestion in Melton’s busy town centre, while also creating safer and more appealing routes for walking, cycling and travel between the north and east of the town.
By reducing traffic travelling through the town, existing routes in Melton will feel safer, less polluted and more attractive for active travel and will benefit business as public spaces in the town centre become more pleasant areas to spend time. The road will also support access to new housing, John Ferneley College, Twinlakes Park and nearby villages.
In the run‑up to opening, the council will be visiting Melton, talking to residents and sharing the story behind this major investment. As part of this, people will be invited to help shape the identity of the new road by choosing from a shortlist of potential names.
The shortlist has been developed through engagement with local politicians, community representatives and council officers and in line with established road‑naming guidance.
The proposed names reflect aspects of Melton Mowbray’s heritage, history and cultural character; however, road names must meet specific criteria, and it is not possible to capture every element of Melton’s history and identity within a single shortlist.
Shortlisted names:
- Farrier Way
- Lazars Way
- Military Way
- Pork Pie Way
- River Eye Road
- Veteran Road
- Victory Road
- Wolds Way
- Wreake Road
“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.”
Person:Councillor Adam Tilbury, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways and Transport
“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.”
Person:Cllr Margaret Glancy, Acting Leader of Melton Borough Council
Choose your favourite name on our Have Your Say page.