HIGHWAYS chiefs say crews are “working tirelessly” to keep key routes across Staffordshire clear.
After snowfall and freezing temperatures have hit local roads, Staffordshire County Council gritting teams have been working around the clock.
A spokesperson for the authority said that the low temperatures meant that keeping routes free from ice was a challenge.
“We’ve seen a lot of comments saying the gritters haven’t been out. We want to be really clear about what’s happening, because the conditions across Staffordshire are extremely challenging.
“Our gritting crews have been working hard through the night. Even if you don’t see a gritter on the road when you’re out, it doesn’t mean the work hasn’t been done.
“Road surface temperatures across Staffordshire have been between -5°C and -9°C. At these extreme temperatures, even gritted roads can refreeze – and forecasts show it will stay below freezing for the next 36 hours, including overnight.
“Tonight, our crews will be back out again, working tirelessly through the night to treat the roads. They’ll continue through the early hours and return again in the morning, ahead of further snow and cold conditions.
“These are people working at all hours in freezing conditions – your neighbours, friends, and family members – doing their very best to keep Staffordshire moving and roads as safe as possible.
“We know this weather can be disruptive and frustrating. These conditions are extreme for this country, but our crews are working flat out around the clock.”
