People can learn about plans to improve Rockingham Road in Market Harborough, with designs now revealed for a scheme to cut congestion, improve safety and make it easier to get around.
The route is one of the town’s busiest and already sees delays at peak times, especially around Clarence Street and Gores Lane.
The £1.9 million scheme is being funded through developer contributions and Active Travel England to make this route safer and more reliable for all road users.
“This scheme is an important investment in Market Harborough and improves how Rockingham Road works for everyone now and into the future.
“We want to make the network stronger and more resilient for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and those travelling by passenger transport.”
Person:Andrew Hamilton-Gray, Lead Member for Highways and Transport
Proposed improvements are designed to ease pressure on the road including as growth in the area happens, to keep traffic moving and make journeys more reliable. They will also make the area safer and easier to use for people walking, cycling and wheeling. Residents have helped shape this plan by providing feedback at engagement events and online.
Plans include upgrades to key junctions at St Mary’s Way/Clarence St and Gores Lane, a new pedestrian crossing near Gores Lane and a wider shared path for walking and cycling between the railway bridge and Rockingham Industrial Estate. There will also be more cycle parking, clearer signs and new trees and street furniture to improve the look and feel of the route.
Work is taking place with residents, businesses and schools to raise awareness of new priority crossings and to promote cycling and walking.
A one-way system on Clarence Street is also being proposed as a trial planned for implementation in early August for 18 months. This will be closely monitored to see how it works in practice before any final decision is made.
Construction is expected to start in August 2026 and run into spring 2027. While there will be some disruption, work will be carefully planned to keep traffic moving as much as possible, with clear updates provided throughout.
More information is available on the Market Harborough project page.