Transport NI prepares for winter in Western Division: 34 gritters available and salt barns ‘filled to the maximum’

Roads Minister Chris Hazzard has reminded motorists to take extra care while driving as winter approaches.

Mr Hazzard (pictured) was speaking as he announced the start of the annual roads winter safety service.

Minister Hazzard said: "Darker mornings and evenings and lower temperatures around this time of year make driving conditions more difficult and I want to encourage all road users to take extra care on our roads this winter.

“While we can’t predict the weather winter may bring, the public can be assured that my winter safety service is now up and running and, whatever the weather, will be working to keep our main roads open.”

TransportNI Western Divisional Manager Conor Loughrey, said: “Throughout the winter season from now until the middle of April, we will have 68 staff on standby to ensure the main roads are salted, helping drivers to cope with wintry conditions.

“Salt barns and stockpiles are being filled to maximum capacity in Western Division which encompasses the council areas of Mid Ulster, Fermanagh & Omagh, and Derry City & Strabane.

“When ice or snow is forecast, we have 34 gritters available which can salt the main network in just over three hours, a massive logistical exercise that costs around £20,000 each time it takes place.”

“Transpor NI will continue to provide salt bins and grit piles at strategic locations and will endeavour to replenish them during the winter.

“The salt bins and grit piles will be for use on a self help basis to help prevent the formation of snow and ice on pavements and untreated roads."

Arrangements will also be in place to enlist the help of contractors, including farmers, to clear blocked roads and TransportNI has introduced enhanced communication arrangements and priority secondary salting to rural schools that are most affected by wintery weather conditions.