Thurrock Council is revising its gritting programme this weekend in response to the coldest winter for 30 years.
Latest forecast predictions are that the cold weather will continue over the weekend and into next week.
The Government has taken control of the national distribution of road salt. This does not mean the Government has targeted Thurrock, but dwindling national supplies will be targeted at areas where reserves are lowest.
Thurrock started this winter with its largest stock of salt and, despite receiving further supplies, the severe conditions have reduced our stock.
In order to ensure major routes are kept clear, Thurrock, like many authorities around the country, is to start operating a reduced gritting system to manage supplies.
It will continue to grit “A” roads and access roads to towns and villages.
The public are being asked to take special care on all roads while the freezing weather continues, particularly on untreated roads and footways.
The council is constantly monitoring weather forecasts and its supply of road salt and will make further operational decisions as necessary.
