COUNCIL APPROVES WINTER PLAN

Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Committee has approved a Winter Service Plan which aims to ensure the safety of communities through any adverse weather this winter.

This year’s plan is similar to that used last winter following the successful delivery of winter services including a revised salting regime which will remain in place this winter.

Key 2022/23 winter information:

> A total of 159 planned preventative call outs to treat roads and footpaths.
> Increased salt use compared to 2021/22
> Salt bin usage was above the long-term average with additional refills throughout the winter period
> Winter treatments extended into April
> Significant community self-help efforts through Resilient Community groups and others

Preparing for this winter:

In preparing to deal with this winter, the Council currently has:

> Over 18,000 tonnes of salt stocked
> Over 1,200 grit bins
> 41 gritters
> 29 footpath gritters
> Additional contractors available to support winter maintenance operations as required

Borderers are encouraged to sign up to the free emergency messaging system SB Alert to receive early warning of adverse weather. Alerts can be provided by phone, text or email and the type of alert received can be chosen when signing up at www.sbalert.co.uk

A wide range of information and FAQs on the Council’s winter response can be found at www.scotborders.gov.uk/winter