Shropshire Council workers, partners and volunteers have been praised for their clean-up efforts in the aftermath of Storm Arwen.
Workers provided around the clock service last week to ensure that the county’s roads remain open and accessible in the wake of damage and disruption caused by the storm.
Mark Barrow, executive director of place with Shropshire Council said: “I want to say a big thank you to our highways team and to the farmers and other volunteers who all helped to clear trees and ensure that our roads, villages and towns were accessible.”
From the arrival of Strom Arwen, Shropshire’s highway service received more than 380 requests for help, including 190 phone calls. Of these requests, 171 were reports of fallen trees blocking roads, reports Borders Counties Advertizer.
Mark Barrow addressed the damage caused by Arwen, saying: “The effects of Storm Arwen were felt right across the county. Sadly some people and areas were affected more than others, and I know many people are still without power or repairing damage caused to properties.”
On Sunday, the water supplies were disrupted as power was being restored, further complicating the situation. Up to 6000 homes were affected, 200 of which required assistance and bottled water.
In addition to the general public requesting support, the police and fire service also asked for assistance from the council. This was in response to fallen trees and the subsequent disruption caused to the roads.ADVERTISING
The council’s highway team worked throughout the weekend to and into the next week to clear fallen trees, supported by a team of farmers and other volunteers.
Regarding the extra work put in by workers and volunteers, Mark Barrow said: “The team were very stretched, and I know they didn’t get much sleep on Friday night. Some of the affected roads were just outside Shropshire in Powys so we also worked with colleagues at Powys County Council to ensure that the roads over the border were also maintained.”
He again extended thanks to those who provided assistance in the aftermath of the storm, adding: “Storm Arwen clearly had a big impact but the hard work of a great deal of people, and collaboration with our external partners and utility companies ensured that roads were quickly reopened, and vulnerable people supported. So thank you again to all involved.”
