Roads in winter

We work to keep main roads safe and open during winter weather. When ice or snow is forecast, we treat key routes to help you travel safely.

It is not possible to grit every road or footpath. No council can do this. We focus on the routes that are most important for traffic, public transport and emergency services.

Our Winter Service Policy and Procedures document will provide information on all road winter services.

What we grit

We treat around 49% of roads when ice or snow is expected, which is above the Scottish Average of 45%

Our priority routes include:

• main roads and busy routes
• roads used by public transport
• key links to hospitals and emergency services

We also grit main footpaths in town centres. During periods of heavy snow, we may clear and treat additional high-use areas.

Most residential streets and footpaths are not gritted.

How we respond

We use a fleet of:

• 29 gritters
• 12 footway tractors
• 4 loaders

Around 150 road workers help to:

• spread salt on roads and footpaths
• clear snow
• keep routes safe and open

Much of this work takes place overnight and early in the morning, so routes are treated before people travel.

We monitor weather forecasts closely so we can act quickly when conditions change.

What you can do

You can help by:

• taking extra care when travelling in winter
• allowing more time for journeys
• checking local conditions before you travel

What you can do next

• plan your journey during winter weather
• take care on untreated roads and footpaths
• contact us if you need advice