Fife’s fleet of gritters are ready to roll as tumbling temperatures saw drivers head out for the first time this winter.
Fife Council has revealed the first load of grit this winter was spread on Thursday night, with 21 gritters treating all primary routes across the region and it promises to be a busy few months for the local authority.
With the Beast from the East of February 2018 still fresh in the memory for many people, transport chiefs have been putting the finishing touches to their winter plans and remain committed to keeping the kingdom moving whatever the weather.
Labour councillor Altany Craik, convener of Fife’s economy, tourism, strategic planning and transportation committee, urged Fifers to plan ahead by keeping themselves informed but stressed the council’s transportation service was primed for a busy period.
“The council starts planning ahead for winter in the summer months to ensure that everything is in place,” he said.
“The council’s winter fleet includes 61 vehicles ready to treat Fife’s roads and 34 mini-tractors to clear and grit footpaths.
“We are currently taking delivery of 2,000 tonnes of salt, which will take Fife’s total stock to nearly 22,000, with additional deliveries during the winter period.
“And when weather is extremely bad, we have access to up to 1,000 personnel to work on the road network and we also have arrangements for external resources, plant and equipment.
“By taking these steps now, we aim to keep Fife’s roads safe during the winter.
“As always during this period, key staff will be working 24 hours a day, seven days a week to keep our road network open.
“Of course, it’s also important for Fifers to make sure they know where to find the information they need ahead of any severe weather.”
Local residents have been urged to keep an eye on Fife Council’s social media pages on Facebook and Twitter for any winter updates, or visit www.fife.gov.uk/readyfife.
Local radio stations Kingdom FM, Forth One and Tay FM will also be given information of any school closures as and when they happen.
