As the first snow of winter landed in the Highlands, and Scotland was told to brace itself for 24 days of snow and ice through December, Transport Scotland has announced that a record number of gritters and new technology is ready to keep Scotland moving. 

Ian Cameron from the Met Office, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic brings additional challenges this winter and we will need to be even better prepared if we are to reduce the impact of severe weather and tackle the challenges it presents.”

The winter service fleet now features 230 gritters operating from over 40 depots around the trunk road network, as well as incident response vehicles, and an enhanced patrol provision.

As part of several measures to improve the detection and management of ice accretion, sensors have been installed on the Queensferry Crossing. Live trials of 50:50 pre-wetted salt treatments combined with the latest spreader technology from Germany are ongoing.

Road users on the M80 will be advised of restrictions and closures with the installation of new Motorway Access Control units.

The world’s first all-electric spreader is to be trialled to undertake patrols on the Queensferry Crossing and Forth Road Bridge.
Transport Scotland say that its expanded fleet will help enhance response to snow events — with a particular focus on vulnerable locations. With the help of operating companies and Police Scotland, salt barns across the country currently hold more salt than was used during the entire winter of 19/20.

Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock advises motorists to plan ahead: “I would encourage drivers to check their vehicles before we experience the first of the wintry conditions.  Some simple steps can be taken to prepare such as checking lights on vehicles to make sure they are in good working order, ensure tyres have sufficient tread, check windscreen washer fluid levels and look out scrapers for clearing frost and ice from your vehicle.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said:
“It’s important that motorists prepare for winter, and there are plenty of sources of information that will help them plan ahead. Traffic Scotland provides the most up-to-date information on the trunk road network from its mobile site – my.trafficscotland.org – as well its twitter page @trafficscotland and internet radio broadcasts. You can also follow treatment and patrols on their gritter tracker. 

“We can’t always predict the weather, but we can put plans in place to help keep Scotland moving when the winter conditions move in.”