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Co-operation key to keeping moving
26/02/2010
The Scottish Government is continuing in its efforts to keep the country moving despite the return of some of the most severe weather in decades.
Cabinet Secretary John Swinney today praised the ongoing work to deal with the most recent snowfall, which has affected the A9 - the main arterial route north - particularly hard this week. He also added that, although the clear-up is well under way, it is vital that everyone should remain prepared for the aftermath.
He said:
"The heavy snowfall this week has been challenging and it is essential that we remain prepared. Thanks to the efforts of everyone concerned, our coordinated approach is enabling us to deal with problems quickly.
"The A9 has now reopened along its entire stretch as of this afternoon thanks to the efforts of a team of 35 dedicated drivers, 11 gritters and one snow blower from operating company Scotland Transerv working in partnership with the police to safely re-open the route progressively.
"This co-operation between agencies and local authorities, in sharing resources and experience, is key to continuing to tackle this latest cold snap.
"Our salt stocks are being replenished and prioritised to those areas in most urgent need."
Scotland's schools also began to get back to normal today with 160 of the 300 schools closed yesterday reopening to pupils today.
At present there are no flood warnings in place but heavy rain is forecast for the north and west of the country tomorrow.
The Salt Group, the team set up to participate in the UK Salt Cell which distributes grit according to local needs, will continue to operate this weekend and local authorities and operating companies are being advised to make contact if any shortfall in stock is anticipated.