Northumberland winter gritting team prepares for icy roads as new contract secured
As the colder months approach, Northumberland County Council's Winter Services Team are preparing to keep roads clear and people safe.
With continued investment over the years, the council's 28-strong vehicle fleet are ready to covers thousands of miles across the county, equipped to handle any weather challenges.
From this winter the council will also be gritting and providing winter maintenance on number of routes in Newcastle for the first time, after winning the contract to provide services on behalf of Newcastle City Council.
Councillor Mark Mather, Cabinet Member for Roads and Highways, said: "We're pleased to have secured the winter maintenance gritting contract for Newcastle's roads over the winter.
"It will benefit both councils and our residents can be reassured there will be no impact on the service they receive."
Councillor Peter Lovatt, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Local Services at Newcastle City Council, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Northumberland County Council to deliver an effective and reliable winter roads maintenance service in Newcastle.
“Northumberland County Council already operates a well-established, large scale winter maintenance service, with specialist equipment, staff and resources, all dedicated to keeping roads safe during snow and icy conditions.”
In addition to the county council’s main fleet, spreaders and ploughs are fitted to a number of its vehicles, strategically positioned around the county to respond to reports in areas which are difficult to access for larger vehicles.
All weather stations are equipped with the latest cameras and sensors, allowing for real-time data on weather conditions and salt levels
This enables the council to respond quickly and accurately to changing conditions and provide more reliable forecasts.
Councillor Mather said: “Here in Northumberland we're used to all weathers – and as we head into the colder months our Winter Services team are ready for whatever comes.
"Preparing for winter is a year-round job and it's all down to our dedicated staff - along with invaluable support from the local community.
"Local farmers and contractors play a crucial role in keeping rural and remote roads open while we have voluntary snow squads in some of our villages who help in clearing footpaths and local access routes.
"It's a real team effort and while we don’t yet know what the winter months will bring, our staff and equipment are ready for action."