Preparations for keeping roads in County Durham moving this winter are ‘well underway’, according to the council.

It is making sure its fleet of gritters and winter maintenance vehicles are ready to go when needed. Durham’s winter maintenance team is making sure that salt barns across the county are stocked with 42,000 tonnes of salt ready to tackle any ice and snow and replenishing more than 2,300 salt bins located in key areas across the county to assist residents and businesses.

During the winter season 1,700km of County Durham’s priority one roads will be treated, covering almost half of the county’s road network. More minor routes, or more than 380km priority two roads, will also be treated in times of prolonged severe weather when resources are available.

Cllr John Shuttleworth, our Cabinet member for rural communities and highways, said: “While we are still enjoying the milder weather as we head into autumn, we need to be prepared for the first frost and any potential for snow fall during the winter period.

“It’s important that the winter maintenance fleet and salt stockpiles are ready to go as soon as the weather turns. All of the vehicles have to be well maintained and serviced as the conditions can be challenging for our divers and they need to be able to rely on these vehicles.”

Each of the county’s 40 power gritters are fitted with 360-degree cameras and trackers to help improve safety and provide up to date information on the latest weather conditions.