Grit running out

The nation’s supply of grit for de-icing roads is running perilously low.

Council’s have been forced to ration supplies as the country’s salt mines struggle to meet demand.      

A special Government advisory body has been set up to prioritize areas of greatest need. Salt Cell – a panel made up of the Highways Agency, Local Government Association, Department for Transport (DfT), airport authorities and salt suppliers – is deciding where to send dwindling stocks.

Some councils have said they will run out completely within days and there are even fears supplies for motorways are running thin following an announcement from the Highways Agency that hard shoulders will not be treated.

Transport minister Lord Adonis said salt supplies were “under pressure” due to the extended cold snap.

The DfT has said it does not expect supplies to run out.