FIVE new multi-purpose vehicles are set to embark on patrols in West Dunbartonshire during their first winter in operation.
The gritters, which can be adapted to ensure they are useful throughout the year, have already been working hard undertaking pothole repairs as well as being used as tippers.
Now they are ready for wintry conditions across West Dunbartonshire, with teams on standby 24 hours a day to undertake gritting required across the road network.
As well as readying the new vehicles, West Dunbartonshire Council stores of salt have been restocked in a purpose builtsalt dome ready for use in response to freezing temperatures over the winter period.
When frost is forecast, the local authority treats approximately 156km (43.5%) of the public road network in West Dunbartonshire, including A and B Class roads, main urban traffic routes, the main routes to schools where these can be clearly identified, major bus routes, and routes to main emergency service establishments. The council also has more than 480 grit bins which will be restocked regularly over the season, available for residents to use on their streets.
Councillor David McBride, convener of infrastructure, regeneration, and economic development at West Dunbartonshire Council, said, “It is great to see these new multi-use vehicles getting ready for action this winter. The five gritters, which have multiple bodies enabling them to carry out different tasks have already been put to use throughout the year including filling in potholes.
“They were purchased earlier this year to make better use of our resources rather than hiring vehicles and, already, they have been showing their worth.
“This shows the decisive action the council is taking and we hope that residents will also take on board the tips outlined to keep themselves and their neighbours safe and comfortable over winter.”
