Topic Projects, Infrastructure
Date 21 May 2026
Galliford Try celebrated the new road name unveiling for the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road (MMDR) project with Roads Minister Simon Lightwood MP, before the official opening for traffic.
The new name was chosen through a public vote and gives a nod to the town’s rich culinary heritage. It will be known as ‘Pork Pie Way’, recognising Melton Mowbray’s reputation as the Rural Capital of Food.Attendees at the opening event included key community figures, representatives from Leicestershire County Council, alongside the Minister, reflecting the significance of the scheme.
Delivered on behalf of Leicestershire County Council, the new 4.4-mile road runs from the A606 Nottingham Road near St Bartholomew’s Way, around the eastern edge of Melton Mowbray and back to the A606 near Burton Lazars. The scheme included six new roundabouts, four bridges and the diversion of the River Eye 100m from its course, which created new habitat for local wildlife.
The road has been designed to divert through traffic away from the town centre, easing congestion, improving journey reliability, and supporting future housing and economic growth in the area.
Recognition for the project’s high standards has also been secured, with an ‘Outstanding’ rating from the Considerate Constructors Scheme. This includes three Gold Awards for excellence in safety, environmental care and consideration for local communities.
Commenting on the event, Glennan Blackmore, Managing Director, Galliford Try Infrastructure, said: “We are very proud to have celebrated the successful opening of the scheme to the public. After three years of immense collaboration across the entire team, it’s incredible to see the new road now fully open. We’re delighted that the community has remained at the heart of this scheme, with the new name celebrating a proud history. We look forward to how the new road now will support growth in the local employment, and enable future housing delivery.”
Simon Lightwood, MP, said: “I was absolutely delighted to be in Melton Mowbray today to mark the opening of Pork Pie Way, a name that embraces the history and heritage of the town, which has been backed by nearly £50 million in government investment. It’s a proud moment that puts Melton Mowbray firmly on the map, while creating a road that will support new jobs, homes, and opportunities for years to come.”