Tim Peppin, Director of Regeneration and Sustainable Development said:
“In light of the ongoing freezing temperatures being experienced, local authorities are using their stocks of salt at a fairly rapid rate. They have now used up between a third and a half of the stocks they had built up going into the winter.
Normally restocking would have commenced but there is enormous pressure on suppliers, not only from Wales but also from English and Scottish authorities. This is similar to the ‘white-out’ situation experienced last winter where all areas require restocking at the same time.
Local authorities, WLGA and WAG are working together to monitor the situation closely and ensure that available supplies are directed to the areas of greatest need. An import of 12,000 tonnes is currently scheduled to arrive in Newport from Sweden just after Christmas and WLGA and WAG are currently building up an order list from authorities for a second import order which we hope will arrive in January.
Gritting teams continue to work around the clock to keep the main roads open. However, despite these efforts drivers and pedestrians need to continue to take great care, especially on side roads which are untreated, and to be well prepared before setting off on long journeys.”
