Lacking some grit

Lord Provost concerned by dangerous conditions

The recent icy weather saw gritters out in force along major roads — but pedestrians have complained about the lack of salt being spread on pavements and in residential areas.

Ninewells has also seen a surge in A&E admissions because of people falling on slippery paths.

Lord Provost Ian Borthwick said: “I was at a function when a number of concerns were raised about the icy conditions.

“I have written to the relevant officers asking them to look into the issue. It is very concerning that we are experiencing the same problems time and time again.

“I appreciate the department is doing its best. However, I feel it is appropriate to highlight these issues, especially when it is concerning older people.”

A spokeswoman for NHS Tayside said: “We have been experiencing exceptional demand in the last week due to the recent wintry weather resulting in a sharp increase in the number of slip and trip injuries.”

A&E consultant Dr Barry Klaassen said: “We are still seeing a significant increase in the number of patients attending our emergency departments in Ninewells and Perth Royal Infirmary with broken bones, mainly due to falls caused by the icy conditions.

“We would advise people to dress warmly and wear sensible shoes with a good grip.”

Sharon MacLellan, 35, who lives in Garvock Place in the Brackens, said: “As a nurse on the orthopaedic ward at Ninewells it puts the absolute fear in me because I know what injuries a nasty fall can lead to.

“We have complained numerous times to the council but it seems to be falling on deaf ears.”

Neighbour Stella Hutchison, 71, added: “I am sick of this street being forgotten about when the gritters are sent out each year.”

Another concerned Tele reader, from Kirkton, added: “I am wondering what Dundee City Council is doing about gritting all the paths and streets. Are they waiting for someone to make a claim to break the budget more?”

A Dundee City Council spokesman said: “Road and pavement gritters have been out across the city. There are also 900 grit bins at significant locations in the city, many placed as a result of requests from local people.”

See Your Voice on pages 16 and 17 for a letters special on the response to the icy weather.

THE Lord Provost of Dundee is seeking answers from the city council after reports of people falling or being stuck indoors due to pavements not being gritted effectively.

A gritter at work on a local road during the recent wintry conditions. Inset: Lord Provost Ian Borthwick, who has raised concerns about icy pavements.