Friday, 03 December 2010
Weather Forecast
We have been fortunate to avoid the worst of the snow again. Temperatures were not a low as forecast overnight. However, temperatures are still below zero and ice could be a problem on side roads, pavements, and untreated roads. A more detailed summary of the weather can be found at www.metoffice.co.uk
The Council continues to monitor the conditions around the clock and will respond to the prevailing weather conditions.
The public should be aware of the very strong cold winds and sub zero temperatures. Drivers should take sensible winter precautions ensuring they have additional warm clothing in the event of any vehicle breakdown, carry a mobile phone and ensure their vehicle is good working order.
Highways
The Council’s Highways Service continues to salt the network. The major network is clear and running without disruption. However on side roads and minor roads, particularly in exposed locations and on high ground snow can be up to 5cm deep. This snow has frozen. Drivers should be aware of the risk of black ice and take particular care.
As far as possible the public should plan journeys to stay on the main road network.
We now hold 1,200 tonnes of salt in stock at our Clutton Depot. 100 tonnes is available at Braysdown Depot tomorrow. However, the Council cannot afford to be complacent with our salt stocks and will prioritising the use of salt accordingly. Our full fleet of nine gritters treat 260 miles of road every time we do a gritting run.
The Council is unable to supply salt to individual residents and in order to ensure public safety residents should not attempt to collect salt from Clutton Depot. Electronic gates prevent public access and maintain security.
Public spaces and Car Parks
It is expected virtually all car parks, including Park and Ride sites will be open.
Schools
The latest schools information can be found at www.bathnes.gov.uk/severeweather.
Information about youth centres can also be found here. Footpaths to and from schools may be icy so care should be taken.
Parents/guardians can also listen to their local radio station for information.
Waste and Recycling
Due to the icy conditions, we have been unable to collect waste and recycling from some properties this week.The Council's advice is very clear in respect of waste collections during severe weather. Residents should put their waste out as planned. If it’s not collected, it should be left where it is, or alternatively it should be taken back into the property, until the next collection day. More information is available here.
It is anticipated that Recycling Centres will be open as usual.
In common with all local authorities nationwide, public safety is paramount when we make a decision on conducting waste collections during adverse weather conditions. When conditions are icy it is unsafe for both pedestrians and vehicles to have waste vehicles weighing up to 20 tonnes negotiating narrow residential streets and collecting waste.
In some cases, residents may have their recycling collected and residual waste not collected (or vice-versa). As well as varying conditions during the day being a factor, recycling vehicles are smaller and weigh less (around 12 tonnes compared to 20) than residual waste collection vehicles meaning they are more manoeuvrable.
Public Transport
For information on the wider public transport network, bus passengers can call Traveline on 0871 200 2233.
Other Services
It is anticipated that other Council services will operate as normal. If the weather does worsen further information will be provided.
Adult Services
If you have a vulnerable neighbour, please try and check their well-being during the cold weather.
There are no reported problems with adult social care services or community meals. However, if there are any problems with home care services or services for adults with learning difficulties, personal contact will be made with anyone who is expecting a service from their care provider and they will be kept updated throughout the day.
Useful vulnerable adult telephone numbers: Community and Health Access Team: 01225 396000. Emergency Duty Team: 01454 615165.
All Community Resource Centres remain open.
Leisure Services
It is not expected that the snowfall will disrupt the Council’s leisure facilities- which will all remain open. Any changes to this, will be posted on the website. Contact details for all centres are below:
- Bath Sports and Leisure Centre - 01225 486905
- Keynsham Leisure Centre - 01225 395164
- South Wansdyke Sports Centre - 01761 415522
- Culverhay Sports Centre - 01225 480882
Chew Valley Sports Centre remains open.
Libraries
All Libraries are open normal hours and the Mobile libraries services is operating as usual. Check www.bathnes.gov.uk/libraries for the latest updates.
Council Offices
All Council offices are open as usual.
For more information
1. The Council’s website will be updated regularly to keep residents up to date about general information: www.bathnes.gov.uk
2. All other enquiries should be made to Council Connect on 01225 394041 between 8am – 6pm weekdays (Wednesday 9.30am – 6pm);
3. Outside of these times the Council’s Out of Office Emergency number is 01225 477 477;
4. People can email on council_connect@bathnes.gov.uk or SMS text on 07797806545. These can be contacted 24 hours a day and a response will be sent next working day. These methods should not be used for emergency communication.
Service specific telephone numbers
Enquiries about Adult care transport should call 01225 394371.
