Cold-snap hits Leicestershire

Gritters across Leicestershire tackled key routes multiple times over the past few days as road surface temperatures dropped to nearly –8C in places. 

A nightly run typically sees around 260 tonnes of salt spread over 1,300 miles of roads. 

Councillor Adam Tilbury, county council cabinet member for highways, said: “Our gritter drivers have been working incredibly hard over this cold snap, facing some tough conditions, to keep the road network up and running. 

“Although rock salt can help reduce ice forming on the road surface and improve grip, we still urge motorists to take extra care on the roads. It’s simply not possible for us to grit every route, but we aim treat key ones.

“Forecasts are warning of an ongoing cold snap over the next few days. Please prepare well for changing challenging travel conditions.  

“You can check out our interactive gritting map on our website to see which routes we focus on.” 

A-routes and busier B-routes, roads linking towns and larger villages, as well as roads outside bus, train, fire and ambulance stations and hospitals are treated. 

Trusted local snow wardens, as well as other local authorities, also support efforts to keep pavements treated for pedestrians, using the on-street grit bins the council keeps topped up. 

Staying safe and healthy during cold weather can be challenging but residents are urged to get vaccinated for flu and covid if eligible, stay connected with friends and family as much as possible and take extra care when getting out and about in cold and icy conditions. 

Keep-up-to-date  with the latest weather and information on gritting and travel  and view the interactive gritting map:

https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/adverse-weather