‘Show some grit now’ say Tories
OPPOSITION POLITICIANS are calling on Calderdale Council to do more to prepare for the challenges winter will bring to its highways service.
But a senior council Cabinet member says the authority is ready to handle what the weather may bring.
Conservative group leader Coun Steven Leigh (Ryburn) said the council needs to do more to prepare for the winter period, arguing there is an HGV driver shortage, and the planned salt barn at Ainley Top has not yet been built.
He claims “potential disaster awaits” and says the council needs to take the initiative now.
Coun Leigh says: “I am worried and alarmed at the Labourrun council’s preparation for the winter period.
“We are into October and have heard very little on what contingencies are in place for the coming months.
“We are in the middle of a national HGV driver shortage and I am concerned that Calderdale will not be able to maintain the roads to a safe standard.
“It will not be long before the weather turns and without proper gritting, Calderdale’s roads could come to a standstill.
“We are calling on the council to get a grip of its HGV driver shortages- there are no signs that the council is seeking to address this problem.
But Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for Public Services and Communities, Coun Jenny Lynn (Lab, Park) said the council had planned well in advance for winter.
“The council’s winter service runs from October to April each year.
“During this period conditions are monitored 24 hours a day and decisions made on gritting and when required, clearing snow and stocking salt bins.
“We plan well in advance for the winter period and this includes agreeing staffing requirements and rota arrangements to ensure we’re ready for any spells of bad weather,” she said.
Without proper gritting, Calderdale’s roads could come to a standstill.