Road users in Moray are being asked to take care over the next seven weeks while 40 miles of roads in the area undergo surface dressing as part of the Council’s annual Road Maintenance Programme.
From today, Monday 29 May, signs will mark the sections of road being worked on and drivers are urged to keep their speed to 20mph within these areas for their own safety, workforce safety and also to minimise damage to newly laid surfaces.
While the surface dressing programme is taking place during the tourist season efforts will be made to keep disruption to a minimum for locals and visitors.
Surface dressing has to be done during the summer months as the process requires warmer road surface temperatures and relatively dry weather.
Surface dressing, which prevents roads from deteriorating from wear through traffic and weather as well as improving surface texture, takes a great deal of planning and co-ordination.
Moray Council’s Senior Engineer for Roads Maintenance, Grant Brotherston, advises road users that excess chippings may present a challenge until they can be swept away.
“The operation involves the distribution of bitumen followed by an application of chippings, which are then rolled into the road surface with the minimum of waste.
“However, there’s a short period of time before surplus chippings can be swept away and it’s during this time that flying stone chippings can cause broken windscreens or damaged paintwork on cars.
“Loose chippings can also create the effect of a slippery road, with a very real danger of vehicles losing control and leaving the road.
“These problems can be avoided if drivers keep their speed well down when passing over a newly dressed surface, keep a good distance from the vehicle in front and do not attempt to overtake.
“To avoid damage to the new surface, sudden braking or acceleration should also be avoided. Pedestrians are advised to avoid any unnecessary walking on newly laid dressing and should check their footwear before entering homes or vehicles.
“We’re extremely grateful to the public for their co-operation and patience while we carry out these necessary works.”
Further information is available at www.moray.gov.uk/sdress or email road.maint@moray.gov.uk.