Flood-damaged country park bridge reopens

A bridge, replacing one damaged in winter floods, has opened in a park in Leicestershire.

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

The new bridge has been built wider to allow for wheelchairs and pushchairs, along with strengthened foundations and anti-slip decking.

Melton Borough Council said the crossing was "more resilient, accessible and better suited to the needs of visitors now and in the future".

The opening of the bridge restores a key route through Melton's popular country park, officials said.

Ronan Browne, leader of Melton Borough Council, said: "We know how important this bridge is to residents and visitors, and how much it has been missed since it was damaged.

"Recognising the importance of this ongoing project to the community, the new administration in May 2026 committed to getting the bridge replaced as quickly as possible, and I'm pleased this has been achieved."

"We look forward to residents and visitors enjoying this much-loved part of the country park for many years to come."

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