New multi-purpose bad weather gritters designed to do pothole repairs

By Democrat reporter

West Dunbartonshire Council claims to have has taken decisive action to improve the condition of the area’s roads with new vehicles which will be used all year round.

The plan is that instead of hiring hotbox vehicles which are used mainly in spring and summer and gritters, used during the colder months, the Council has purchased five multi-use vehicles which can be used throughout the year.

As well as having operational benefits, the Council believes the move will result in a saving of £171,000 per year.

The five vehicles will be supplied with multiple bodies allowing for a quick change of use. They comprise five gritters which can be changed to two hotboxes for fixing potholes and three tippers.

This will increase efficiency and reliability as the service will have more control over accessing vehicles when required. This change will also mean the service has the ability to undertake permanent repairs for other services within the Council at a lower cost.

Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor David McBride, left, said: “This move, approved at the meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council in December as part of the budget process, is a sensible and pragmatic approach.

“It builds resilience in our roads service while also making savings.”

Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor Lawrence O’Neill added: “I am delighted to hear that these vehicles will be available to the Council to use as it sees fit.

“Changing climates have a serious impact on our roads and so being able to address gritting needs as well as pothole repairs throughout the year is vital.”