Gritters hit Telford roads in earliest winter treatment since 2012
Gritters have been out on Telford roads for the first time this winter - the earliest they've been needed since 2012.
As road temperatures dropped to as low as -2C(28.4F) earlier this week, Telford’s gritters started their work on the roads and officers say they will be out whenever frost or ice is forecast over the coming months.
Telford & Wrekin Council has also filled the borough’s salt stores along with the town’s 670 grit bins as part of the preparations.
The last time crews had to grit in October was in 2012, which ended up having several long-lasting snow events – two in January, one in February and one in March which continued for two weeks, including over the Easter period and into April.
The council said its winter duty officer will check MetDesk weather forecasts and anticipated road surface temperatures at lunch times and again in the evening every day.
The forecasts are coupled with information from the local Crudgington weather station to make decisions on whether gritting is needed.
Ongoing road inspections will also be carried out to assess the conditions of the roads.
Once on the street, gritters routinely treat more than 400 kilometres of roads, including bus routes and access roads for emergency services, schools, industrial estates and villages.
Last winter, 6,355 tonnes of grit was used in Telford & Wrekin with gritter vehicles going out 113 times.
Councillor Hilda Rhodes, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for transport, said: “Last winter was pretty harsh, with more than our fair share of snow.
“Fingers crossed we won’t be hit by another beast from the east, but we are fully prepared for keeping the roads moving whatever the weather.
“Crews have been out checking and topping up the hundreds of local grit bins across the borough and we are rallying our snow wardens so that they are ready to lend a hand if needed.
"The work they do is invaluable and very much appreciated, particularly by our older and more vulnerable residents.
"If anyone would like to find out about becoming a snow warden in their area, then please do get in touch."
Further information on gritting in Telford is available at telford.gov.uk/winter
