Motorists urged to be vigilant as temperatures plummet to -5 degrees

 

Motorists in Stoke-on-Trent are being urgent to be extra careful on the roads as temperatures across the city plummet to -5 degrees this weekend.

 

The highways team is on call around the clock during the winter season ready to respond to ice and snow at a moment’s notice.

 

The crews are expecting a hectic few days as forecasters predict up to 15cm of snow and lows of -5 degrees, causing challenging conditions on the city’s roads.

 

Specialist equipment will be fitted to the gritting lorries in order to clear any snow that has fallen on A, B and some C roads.

 

The ploughs make the vehicles wider and the team is urging motorists to avoid parking on the gritting routes so that the lorries have enough room to manoeuvre.

 

It is vital that the carriageways are cleared before salt is spread as the treatment does not take effect if there is snow on the ground.

 

Councillor Ruth Rosenau, cabinet member for regeneration, planning and transportation, said: “Stoke-on-Trent is on amber alert, bracing itself for a snowfall of up to 15cm this weekend. Our dedicated highways team will be on call around the clock, ready to clear snow and treat ice in order to make the roads as safe as possible and on the move despite the winter weather.

 

“However, driving in severe conditions can still pose significant challenges and I would urge people to avoid travelling if at all possible. Those that do have to go out should be extra vigilant when on the roads. Leave plenty of time for journeys, wrap up warm and make sure your tyres and battery are in good working order. It is also a good idea to make sure you have enough fuel to get you home should there be delays and that your screenwash is topped up.”

 

A dedicated team of decision makers are monitoring the forecast around the clock and will make a judgement on when to send the gritting vehicles out.

 

The gritting team treats 125 miles that make up the city’s main roads as well as frequently used bus routes and those that lead to ambulance, fire and police stations along with hospitals and all of the city’s secondary schools.

 

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has a strong salt stock of approximately 2,400 tonnes and uses around 23 tonnes during each run.

 

There are 450 grit bins across the area which residents can use to treat roads and footpaths in their area.

 

For more information on the gritting programme and which roads are treated visit: www.stoke.gov.uk/gritting