Wiltshire’s gritting teams are back on the roads as the council prepares for the colder months ahead – including the snow.
A 24-strong fleet of gritters will begin test runs in the coming weeks to ensure all vehicles and equipment are ready before freezing temperatures arrive.
The tests also give crews a chance to familiarise themselves with their routes ahead of winter.
Last year, the teams were deployed 50 times and spread 6,500 tonnes of salt across Wiltshire’s main roads. Gritting usually takes place late at night or early in the morning, when frost and ice are most likely to form.
The council currently has 12,000 tonnes of salt stored across six depots in the county. Weather stations in key areas provide real-time data to help engineers decide when to deploy gritters.
Wiltshire Council also maintains 1,600 salt bins across the county for use by residents and road users on public roads and footpaths.
Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways at Wiltshire Council, said: “Our fleet of 24 gritters and drivers are always on standby, ready to treat primary routes across Wiltshire and help keep our roads safe throughout the colder months.
“I’d like to thank our incredible gritting crews who work tirelessly, often through the night, to keep Wiltshire’s roads safe during the winter months.”
He also wanted the region’s motorists to play their part in road safety.
“While our teams are fully prepared, we still urge all drivers to take extra care on the roads during cold and icy conditions. Please allow extra time for journeys and drive to the conditions to help keep everyone safe,” he continued.
“I’d also urge people to keep an eye on our social media channels and sign to our newsletters, as these will help our residents to stay up to date with the latest situation in the event of bad weather.”
