Surrey’s Winter Road Safety: Gritters Ready for Action
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Surrey County Council is fully prepared for the upcoming winter, with its dedicated team of gritter drivers now on 24/7 standby to ensure the county's roads remain safe and accessible during cold weather. The operation involves a fleet of 39 state-of-the-art gritting vehicles, many of which have been creatively named by Surrey schoolchildren, including memorable monikers like “Sub-zero hero” and “Grit Granny.” These vehicles are strategically deployed to treat Surrey’s busiest and most critical routes both before and during severe weather events, mitigating the risks posed by ice and snow.
A substantial stock of 10,000 tonnes of salt is stored across four depots throughout Surrey, guaranteeing a ready supply for extensive gritting operations. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining essential connectivity and preventing hazardous driving conditions. The gritting network is comprehensive, covering approximately 35% of Surrey’s road infrastructure. This includes all A roads and B roads, vital bus routes, and critical access paths to key community facilities. Specifically, the network prioritizes routes leading to hospitals, emergency service stations, major railway stations, and schools, ensuring that vital services can continue to operate and residents can access necessary amenities even in adverse weather.
The council has also enhanced its capabilities with the addition of two new mini gritters. These smaller, more agile vehicles are particularly effective for navigating narrower roads and tackling specific localized icy patches that might be challenging for larger gritters, further increasing the efficiency and reach of the gritting service. By investing in modern equipment, maintaining significant salt reserves, and ensuring round-the-clock driver availability, Surrey aims to minimize disruption, enhance public safety, and keep the county moving smoothly throughout the winter months, protecting residents from the dangers of icy roads.
