Work to start to replace bridge damaged in floods

Work is set to begin to replace a park bridge in Melton Mowbray after it was badly damaged by severe weather.

The wooden bridge in Melton Country Park, which crosses Scalford Brook near the stepping stones, was partially submerged when the park flooded in January 2025.

The new bridge will have a wider crossing than the previous structure, to increase accessibility and better meet the needs of those using wheelchairs and pushchairs.

It is set to open in summer.

Other improvements will include strengthening of the bridge foundations, while anti-slip decking will allow water to drain more effectively in wet conditions, improving flood resilience, stability and safety for users.

The works are anticipated to take about six weeks to complete, and the new bridge is expected to open to the public by the end of summer 2026.

During the works, a contractor compound will be set up in the visitor centre car park, which could reduce the number of available parking spaces, but paths will continue to be accessible.

Councillor Ronan Browner, Conservative leader of Melton Borough Council, said: "We are pleased the works to replace the flood damaged bridge can now begin and we understand the bridge has been missed since it was damaged.

"It was important the council took the time to design a replacement that is safe, built to withstand future weather events whilst improving access for visitors."

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