Gateshead roads to be gritted as cold weather moves in

As the wintry conditions descend on the North East , roads can become treacherous and footpaths lethal. Thankfully, there are fleets of gritters tasked with salting the tarmac to make sure things keep moving .

So if you’re worried about heading out , don’t worry as the council and Highways England will make sure that the major routes are covered. There are hundreds of miles of roads across Gateshead so not every road will be seen by one of the gritters.

If there is a salt bin near your home and you’re worried about ice on the roads, it is perfectly fine for you to use the salt for the roads and footpaths around your home, however, it is worth noting that it should not be used on private property, such as private driveways.

Read more: Met Office warning extended as North East is set for icy surfaces and snowy showers

Which roads in Gateshead will be gritted?

Gateshead Council says that it will prioritise gritting roads with high levels of traffic such as the Felling by-pass and the A195 through Blaydon. Gritters will then move into other main roads and bus routes.

It also notes that it cannot clear residential areas during periods of adverse weather unless it is for an emergency, so care should be taken on these roads. Grit bins should be used if available.

The council also add that it will clear footpaths by hand around shopping centres, bus stops, footbridges and where a large number of older people live where possible.

This map shows the priority roads that will be targeted by the council's gritters as the weather hits freezing (Gateshead Council)

It is possible to request gritting in your area?

Gateshead Council does have the option to request gritting on its website but reminds people that it cannot respond to every request. It says: “Limited resources in severe winter weather mean that we cannot respond to all requests for gritting, we will record and consider your request, but it will be subject to priority and resources.”

While refilled regularly, salt bins and heaps may run low. Therefore is also possible to request your nearest salt bin or heap be refilled.

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