Leicestershire’s gritters went out for the first time this winter last night (Mon, 17 Nov) as road surface temperatures plummeted below zero.
Approximately 1,300 miles of key routes were treated with around 130 tonnes of rock salt.
Each below-freezing night, up to 23 of the council’s modern gritting vehicles hit the roads.
A 16,500-tonne stockpile of rock salt is kept across five grit barns in strategic locations across the county. It works to prevent ice forming on roads, which improves grip for motorists and helps to prevent accidents.
“Last year our hardworking drivers took to the roads a total of 53 times, spreading almost 7,000 tonnes of salt; and we stand ready to do the same again this year.
“Winter is a really busy time for us but keeping roads safe with salt grit is absolutely essential. Our top-of-the-range equipment makes the job quicker and more efficient too.”
Person:Tom Vesty, highways works manager
A-routes and busier B-routes, roads linking towns and larger villages, as well as roads outside bus, train, fire and ambulance stations and hospitals are treated throughout winter.
Residents are encouraged to stay safe this winter, get vaccinated for flu and covid if eligible, stay connected with friends and family as much as possible and take extra care when getting out and about in cold and icy conditions.
Keep-up-to-date with the latest information on gritting and travel and view the interactive gritting map
Check for road closures and follow Leicestershire County Council on social media for the latest updates.
The risk of flooding is much higher in winter. Get prepared now and be ‘flood ready’ today:
Top tips on getting winter ready:
- Check weather and travel disruption through news channels and radio stations
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothes for the cold temperatures
- Get advice on reducing heating costs and staying warm in your home from the warm homes team
- Get your covid and flu vaccinations if eligible
- Check on vulnerable neighbours to ensure they’re staying well through cold weather or floods