Snow Clearance

Whenever snow is forecast we aim to pre-salt all the priority 1 and priority 2 routes prior to it falling. However this is not always possible, for example when it starts as rain and turns to snow. When this occurs salting is delayed until the rain stops in order to prevent the salt from being washed away. This situation can be even more difficult if it occurs during the rush hour as traffic congestion impedes the gritters progress.

Once snow has fallen we will continue to work around the clock until all roads are clear. Priority 1 and 2 roads will be cleared first, followed by all other roads, although we sometimes have to return to the priority 1 and 2 roads before all the other roads are clear, to ensure they remain clear of ice and snow. This will often be necessary towards the end of the day, especially when the snow has been thawing all day and evening temperatures fall below freezing causing the melt water to freeze.

During periods of snow we deploy our fleet of 37 gritters equipped with snow ploughs and 3 snow blowers. We also have a network of farmers that we can call on to help clear the roads.  However, salt will not instantaneously remove snow or ice. The action of traffic is essential for salting to be effective by breaking down the salt granules to form a saline solution which melts the ice.