Large rail bridge lifted in to place as bypass works continue

A large-scale crane lift of a bridge’s main structure at a key county council road scheme in Leicestershire has been captured in a fascinating time-lapse video.

A 48-metre-long rail bridge structure was recently installed as part of the new 7.1km North & East Melton Distributor Road (NEMMDR) scheme.

Crossing the Birmingham to Peterborough line at Lag Lane, off Saxby Road, four steel girders weighing approximately 150 tonnes per pair were lifted into place using a highly specialised crane.

The only one of its kind in the UK, it meant engineers were able to quickly and safely install the rail bridge’s main structure.

The rail bridge is the fourth and final major structure on the NEMMDR route, following completion of two 15-metre long road bridges and a 54-metre long bridge over the River Eye last year.

The bridge being lifted in to place. Photo; GalifordTry/YouTube

The project is being delivered by Galliford Try on behalf of Leicestershire County Council.

Councillor Ozzy O’Shea, cabinet member for highways and transport said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see Melton’s rail bridge main structure lifted in place.

“This is an important milestone in a large-scale county council road project - we’re focussed on completing the remaining work, bringing us even closer to opening the NEMMDR to the public.

This new route will enable huge reductions in town centre traffic, improved air quality and greater access to employment and economic growth. It’s a crucial investment for the busy, growing town of Melton Mowbray.”

A timelapse video of the bridge being installed.

Elizabeth Bell, Operations Director for Galliford Try’s Infrastructure business, commented: “Congratulations to all involved with the successful bridge lift that marks the excellent progress the team is making on the MMDR scheme.

“The fantastic collaboration between all involved demonstrates why the MMDR project is becoming an exemplar for our business, and we look forward to continuing to work with all stakeholders to complete the scheme.”

The NEMMDR is set for completion in early 2026.

Metlon Spinney Road remains closed to traffic beyond Twinlakes while the new roundabout is put in to place as part of the works.