Round-clock effort to keep roads open

THERE’S no business like snow business for Oldham Council.

It says staff have been working round the clock to keep things moving since Saturday’s heavy snowfall and plunging temperatures.

Their blizzard-beating system was in full swing with its fleet of 10 gritters and salt stocks coming to the fore to ensure motorists and residents weren’t left stranded.

More than 3,784 miles of roads were cleared with 1,050 tonnes of grit as the council fought to keep primary routes clear, including the trans-Pennine roads and major bus routes.

And with 15cms of snow falling in two hours in some places, the cabinet member for neighbourhoods, Councillor Jean Stretton, said the snow patrol had a tough task on its hands.

“This weekend has seen the borough hit by the heaviest snow this winter, but as in previous years, we have achieved a great deal of success in keeping the borough moving, thanks to forward planning.”

The cold weather is expected to last for a few more days at least so it is very important we all do our bit — we are doing as much as we can but everyone can help out in their own way, such as helping your neighbour grit their path.”

You can keep up-to-date with local weather and conditions at www.oldham.gov.uk/winter which will be updated continually and feature news on school closures, gritting routes, locations of grit bins, grit sales and how to keep updated.

The council’s First Response service will also use its Twitter account, oldhamalert, to inform followers of school and road closures or incidents.