Gritting issues across the district are discussed

Local Ulster Unionist political representatives have raised concerns with Transport NI (formerly Roads Service) officials following the prolonged period of winter weather.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Feb 2015, 12:09 BST
UUP Representatives discussing Winter Weather Woes with Transport NI Officials were from L to R: Simon Richardson - Transport NI, Jo-Anne Dobson MLA, Ald Arnold Hatch, Cllr Kyle Savage, Cllr Olive Mercer, Cllr John Hanna, Cllr Doug Beattie, Arnold Hamilton - Network Maintenance Manager Transport NI, Cllr Colin McCusker and Ian Campbell - Section Engineer Transport NI.UUP Representatives discussing Winter Weather Woes with Transport NI Officials were from L to R: Simon Richardson - Transport NI, Jo-Anne Dobson MLA, Ald Arnold Hatch, Cllr Kyle Savage, Cllr Olive Mercer, Cllr John Hanna, Cllr Doug Beattie, Arnold Hamilton - Network Maintenance Manager Transport NI, Cllr Colin McCusker and Ian Campbell - Section Engineer Transport NI.
UUP Representatives discussing Winter Weather Woes with Transport NI Officials were from L to R: Simon Richardson - Transport NI, Jo-Anne Dobson MLA, Ald Arnold Hatch, Cllr Kyle Savage, Cllr Olive Mercer, Cllr John Hanna, Cllr Doug Beattie, Arnold Hamilton - Network Maintenance Manager Transport NI, Cllr Colin McCusker and Ian Campbell - Section Engineer Transport NI.

Commenting following meeting with Divisional Roads Manager Simon Richardson, Arnold Hamilton and Ian Campbell, Jo-Anne Dobson MLA said: “Road conditions for both drivers and pedestrians have been particularly hazardous in recent weeks.

“That’s why I requested this meeting to discuss a range of issues which have been brought to my, and my colleagues attention by local people.

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“We raised concerns regarding the refilling of gritting boxes and the gritting schedule. We pointed out that the presence of empty grit boxes shows that people are helping to make the roads around their homes safer for themselves and their neighbours and this is to be welcomed and praised.

“I encouraged the officials to ensure that these boxes are refilled regularly because they are a lifeline in times of winter hazards.

“I have reported many to them in recent days and am pleased that they have been refilled and indeed temporary grit piles on some country roads replenished as well.

“All issues which have been raised with me have been directed in writing to Transport NI and I received an assurance from them that each had, or indeed will receive their attention.

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“We urged Transport NI that gritting routes should remain under review to ensure that areas are covered as effectively as possible.

“Everyone who braves the elements to help keep our roads open, whether it is Roads Service, farmers or volunteers deserve our respect for helping to make our roads safer for everyone.”

Mrs Dobson’s constituency office is located at 18 Rathfriland Street, Banbridge and can be contacted at 028 4066 9004 or by email at [email protected].