Gritters out and about this summer

Gritters are a common sight across the county during the winter months, and they are vital for keeping the county’s roads safe in icy conditions. However, some residents may be seeing them on the roads in the next few weeks.

The gritters will not actually be gritting the roads, but will instead be used for driver training to make sure they are ready for the next winter season.

They will also be out on the roads to undertake technical trials due to brand new equipment which has been fitted to the vehicles.

December through February can bring various challenges due to the adverse weather conditions and these exercises just improve Shropshire’s preparedness.

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for environmental maintenance, said:

“Gritters on the road in summer may seem odd to a lot of people, but the training for drivers, especially newer drivers, is invaluable. We would just like to reiterate that no actual gritting will be taking place, and it’s simply down to the need to test upgrades and give experience to drivers.”