Gritters on full alert as temperatures fall
GRITTING work has begun in earnest this week on the 450 kilometres of roads in Stockport.
As the temperature drops - and snow has fallen - the council lorries are ‘on full alert’ and have been out spreading rock salt.
Last year more than 2,000 tonnes was needed for the borough’s roads during 55 separate gritting operations and this winter it has started in midNovember.
There are 10 priority routes in Stockport with the top five being done within two hours of gritters going out.
Number one starts at Travis Brow, in the town centre, covers the length of the Stockport A6 and then takes in Bredbury, Brinnington and Reddish.
The other four on the top priority list are the Gatley, Woodford and Cheadle area, Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme and into Hazel Grove, Offerton, Bredbury Green, Marple and up into Strines, and the town centre up into Edgeley, Davenport and the Heatons.
Once numbers one to five are covered, attention turns to six to 10, which are less well-used roads and the aim is to do these within five hours of the start of gritting.
Other factors in what areas are given priority include steep gradients, schools, public transport and hospitals.
Unadopted roads will not be gritted and private land is the responsibility of the landowner. Residents have also been told that the contents of grit bins are for use on roads and pavements, not private driveways.
Councillor Sheila Bailey, executive member for communities, said: “To prepare for winter the council’s gritting crews are on full alert.
“A decision on where and when to grit is made shortly after each weather forecast. Footpaths are (also) dealt with on a priority basis.
“Schools, public transport, stations, hospitals and retail centres being considered as main routes.
“The preparations in place are aimed at ensuring that Stockport residents can continue to move safely around the borough throughout poor weather conditions.
“The council’s website has been updated to ensure residents are fully informed and can access vital information during the winter weather.”
For more information visit stockport.gov.uk/ gritting.