Staffordshire gears-up for winter

Winter “officially” began in Staffordshire this week as the county council started gearing up for colder weather.

The third week in October is traditionally the time when the county council’s highways teams begin their winter operations.

The launch of Operation Snowflake has seen the council training crews on the latest technology and making sure its 55 gritters and 60 snow ploughs are in tip-top shape.

Around 30,000 tonnes of salt is now in stock – with about the 20,000 used in a “typical” winter.

Staffordshire County Council’s Highway’s Chief Mike Maryon said the early start meant the council’s would be in great shape to deal with whatever winter delivered.

He said: "Looking after our highways is a 24/7 job and preparation is absolutely crucial if we are going to keep the region and our economy on the move during the winter.

“By making sure we are stocked up on salt, ready to hit the roads when needed and have vehicles ready to go, we can quickly be on top of the situation well before the first snowflake lands in Staffordshire.”