Winter is coming - gritters expected out on roads tonight
Gritters are expected out on our roads tonight, as we hear about the plans to keep Scotland moving this winter
You may have felt it was that extra bit chilly this morning - we're being told gritters could be out this evening (November 3) across Scotland.
It's as we hear about the plans from Traffic Scotland on how to keep the roads moving this winter - and we've been visiting their national control centre.
Trunk roads throughout the country will be patrolled by a record number of gritters this year - 240 available in total across 42 depots.
Almost 436,000 tonnes of salt is already stock piled - that's more than the combined amount used on both main roads and local routes over all of last winter.
Operators will also utilise liquid brine on footpaths - which is more eco-friendly and will cause less disruption for surrounding businesses than the traditional method of salting.
Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said:
“Our teams work hard throughout the year to ensure we are well prepared for the worst of the winter weather and this year is no different.
“This is the first winter where all of our operating companies will be working under improved network maintenance contracts – this means a record number of gritters operating enhanced patrol provisions across the trunk road network in Scotland.
“There is also an element of innovation to our winter service, which will see the continuation of liquid de-icer trials on the M8 and liquid brine treatments on footpaths around the trunk road network.
“My officials at Transport Scotland work closely with key partners like Police Scotland and the Met Office, but these relationships become even more important during winter and ensure we coordinate a quick and effective respond to weather events."
Superintendent Stewart Mackie, deputy head of road policing, said:
“As we head into the winter months, it’s important to ensure vehicles and drivers are prepared for the change in road conditions.
"Simple steps can be taken such as plan ahead by checking Traffic Scotland’s website for any road closures or delays, ensure tyres have sufficient tread, check windscreen washer fluid levels and ensure your windscreen is completely clear before driving.
"As the nights get darker, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders should ensure they are visible.
"More best practice for road users will be highlighted over the coming weeks as part of our winter road safety campaign.”
Met Office Markets Director Ian Cameron said:
“The Met Office is delighted to be continuing our excellent relationship with Transport Scotland and partners through this winter and beyond.
“By providing the latest weather data and forecasts, our aim is help keep Scotland moving year-round and support you to make decisions through the winter to stay safe and thrive.
“Weather presents different challenges in different seasons and adverse winter weather can have implications for those managing and using the transport networks. Working together with Transport Scotland will help identify and mitigate these winter weather challenges.”