Durham County Council will significantly increase the number of bus routes and pavements gritted this winter in a huge improvement programme designed to make the county a safer place.
The announcement follows a thorough look at the service by the Environment and Sustainable Communities Scrutiny Committee Review which set tough challenges for the new unitary.
The Portfolio Holder with responsibility for winter maintenance, Cllr Bob Young, said, “Last winter was tougher than ever, with severe spells of cold and snow putting huge demands on our services.
This in turn raised concerns and increased requests for us to broaden the number of routes gritted. Our aim is to make sure that people can safely go to work or school and access essential services.
We have responded quickly and with gusto. There is real determination to keep the county moving whatever the weather.”
Director of Neighbourhood Services, Terry Collins, said that he is confident the improvements to the service this year will have a positive impact across the county. He said, “This winter we will have more vehicles and staff than ever out there gritting an additional 57km of bus routes. We have been given £1m to support this work by the PCT which we will use to make pavements and areas surrounding many important public places safer for pedestrians.
“In addition to the physical improvements we are dramatically improving the way we keep everyone informed. All residents should receive a detailed leaflet so they can keep informed. There will be forecasts on our web site and severe weather warnings will be widely broadcast. We also intend to arrange a service
for residents to receive severe weather warnings by text starting this winter.
Details of how to access this service will be featured on our website: www.durham.gov.uk”
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
