Roads teams across South Lanarkshire are ready for the winter season

Roads teams in South Lanarkshire are gearing up for the winter season with preparations in full swing. As November marks the beginning of the winter roads campaign, South Lanarkshire Council’s roads teams are on standby with a fleet of 29 gritters, 12 footway tractors, and four loaders ready to tackle icy conditions. With a team of around 150 winter staff members monitoring weather forecasts three times a day, the council aims to grit 49% of the region’s road network when snow, ice, and low temperatures are expected – surpassing the Scottish average of 45%.

These efforts prioritise key routes that provide access to essential services such as hospitals, emergency stations, police offices, schools, and rural communities. The council has stockpiled 31,400 tonnes of road salt, nearly double the amount used last winter, to ensure there are ample resources available for any weather challenges. Councillor Robert Brown, chair of the community and enterprise resources committee, emphasised the importance of being well-prepared for winter conditions to keep South Lanarkshire moving smoothly.

The council’s winter maintenance policy includes providing real-time updates on gritting routes and locations of grit bins through various channels such as the Roads in Winter pages, social media accounts (@SLCRoads and @SouthLanCouncil), and a live gritter tracker. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather warnings and to follow advice shared during the council’s winter awareness campaign to stay safe on the roads.

In summary, South Lanarkshire Council is taking proactive measures to ensure the region is well-equipped to deal with winter weather challenges. The commitment to maintaining essential services and keeping roads safe demonstrates the council’s dedication to the community’s welfare during the colder months. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared to navigate winter conditions effectively.

Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the proactive approach of South Lanarkshire Council in preparing for winter weather conditions. By stockpiling salt, maintaining a dedicated team of winter staff, and focusing on key routes, the council aims to ensure the safety and accessibility of essential services. The emphasis on clear communication with residents through various channels underscores the council’s commitment to keeping the community informed and prepared during the winter season. Such initiatives are crucial in safeguarding public safety and minimizing disruptions caused by challenging weather conditions.