Grit stocks won’t slip — council

OLDHAM Council insists it will not run out of grit this winter.

The local authority has rubbished claims it is planning on using nearly 600 fewer tonnes of salt to cope with this year’s icy blast.

A total of 6,558 tonnes was used last winter to deal with the big freeze. The 6,000 tonnes of salt currently in stock will be replenished after 100 tonnes are used, says the council.

A council spokesman added: “The 6,000 tonnes is our resilience level, as determined by the Department for Transport. We have had no difficulties in the supply of salt.”

A fleet of 10 gritters are in place aimed at seven priority routes, including the trans-Pennine roads and major bus routes.

Manchester solicitors Russell Jones & Walker issued a freedom of information request to Oldham Council regarding grit provision.

Paul Macbeth, who works in the company’s road traffic accident department, said: “Councils regularly bear the brunt of angry motorists when roads become too treacherous to navigate, but legally, they’re not obliged to lay grit on all busy roads, but they should ensure major highways aren’t endangered by snow or ice.”

Regular updates will be online at www.oldham.gov.uk/winter.