Scotland’s roads are being kept safe this winter thanks to the tireless efforts of road maintenance teams battling snow, ice, and storms to keep the country moving.
So far, this winter has brought three named storms alongside weeks of challenging weather, including high winds, heavy snow, and freezing rain, pushing maintenance teams into action around the clock.
Since the season began, more than 240 gritters have treated Scotland’s 2,179 miles of trunk roads countless times, ensuring they remain passable despite harsh conditions.
Nearly 193,000 tonnes of salt have already been used across both trunk and local roads, with more than 442,000 tonnes still in stock, ensuring teams remain ready for what lies ahead.
This effort is part of a year-round investment in Scotland’s roads, with the trunk road budget set to rise to over £714 million in 2025/26, up 4.7%, bolstering the country’s ability to respond to extreme weather and maintain a reliable road network.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop visited BEAR Scotland’s Burghmuir gritter depot in West Lothian to personally thank road workers for their vital efforts during this particularly harsh winter season.
Ms Hyslop praised the gritting teams for their hard work and dedication, highlighting their ‘round the clock’ commitment to keeping Scotland moving during some of the most extreme weather conditions seen in recent years.
She reminded travellers to play their part by preparing for journeys during adverse weather, ensuring their vehicles are winter-ready, and following Police Scotland’s travel advice when conditions worsen.
Traffic Scotland’s resources, including its website, live updates via X, and the popular gritter tracker, make it easy for travellers to stay informed and even follow the movements of Scotland’s fleet of named gritters as they treat roads in real time.
For those travelling by rail, air, or ferry, Ms Hyslop encouraged staying in touch with service operators for the latest updates, stressing the importance of planning ahead in challenging weather.
Scotland’s gritting teams, armed with healthy salt stocks and unwavering dedication, continue to provide a lifeline for communities across the country, ensuring essential travel and safety through the winter months.
