Scotland’s roads bosses must continue to prepare together ahead of any forthcoming wintry weather, he said today.
The Minister was speaking as he inspected parts of Transport Scotland’s estimated £15 million winter service, which began on 1st October, during a visit to a depot in Perth today.
Scotland’s 2,000 mile motorway and trunk road network must be treated when snow and ice does inevitably arrive.
The Transport Minister said: “Keeping Scotland moving is vital to the Scottish economy, and we have built on the experience of last two harsh winters. We are working with our partners across the public and private sector to ensure our winter service is as prepared as possible.
“Our salt stocks are at 70% of the total levels use last year but no roads authority can guarantee to keep roads free from snow and ice. When severe comes there will be disruption even with the best laid plans, but our operating companies are better prepared to get Scotland moving again due to our focus on improvement since last winter.”
Transport Scotland is enhancing its Traffic Scotland service, providing the customer with more information to make informed decisions.
Available on both on computer and mobile devices, the Traffic Scotland website ensures road users have more ways to get live travel information. With around 81,000 downloads of the travel app, it is clear this means of keeping road users up-to-date is proving popular.
In addition to the online information, Transport Scotland’s Customer Care Line – 0800 028 1414 – gives access to public transport timetables, making the decision to use a train or bus easier.
