Published on September 17th, 2011

Surrey County Council has prepared extensively for winter in the event the county experiences the poor weather conditions seen last year.

The council’s winter fleet has been extended to provide greater mobility and coverage. Adding to last year’s efforts, 50 farmers will support the Highways team, alongside Surrey’s 4x4 group and a further ten snow ploughs. These will help the council clear and maintain Surrey's main routes during winter.

Additionally, forty tonnes of grit is being given to district and borough councils to spread in town centres this year – more than double the amount provided last year.

Residents are being asked to support the service by reporting problems they spot on roads and pavements at www.surreycc.gov.uk/highwaysinfoonline. Reporting any problem online, from broken streetlights to potholes or pavement faults is by far the fastest and most efficient way. Once reported it can be added to the extensive programme of maintenance works taking place across the county in the coming months.

Residents are also being asked to also plan ahead for winter by preparing their vehicles, checking their route before travelling, looking out for vulnerable neighbours and clearing the snow from footpaths and driveways with care.

More information and advice, including details of services affected by bad weather, the county's priority routes for gritting and details of salt bins filled can be found at www.surreycc.gov.uk/winter.