Wheels in motion as Rochdale’s winter gritting service gears up

Monday, 17 November 2025 16:46

By David Murphy

Rochdale Council’s winter highways team is on standby as freezing temperatures and wintry conditions begin to take hold across the borough.

Seven gritters and a fleet of snow ploughs are ready to tackle icy roads, supported by a dedicated crew working round-the-clock on a 24/7 rota.

Approximately 4,500 tonnes of salt are stockpiled at the Princess Street depot, with teams monitoring conditions using roadside weather stations at Blackstone Edge, Edenfield Road and Heywood Old Road, as well as a computerised ice detection system.

Gritting is prioritised on A roads and major routes, covering 200 miles of highway per run. Each of the borough’s seven routes takes around four hours to complete.

In addition, around 700 grit bins are available for residents to use on public roads and paths during adverse weather.

Councillor Shah Wazir, cabinet member for highways, said:

“The work our winter team do is so important. Our drivers are ready to mobilise at a moment’s notice, including over Christmas and New Year, and will often work overnight while the rest of us are asleep to ensure that the roads are clear by the morning.”

He added:

“We know how important it is to keep the borough moving, particularly for our emergency services, who don’t have the option to stay at home when conditions get treacherous.

“Although the team works really hard, it’s important for drivers to remember that grit can only do so much and that it’s best to stay at home if possible in periods of extreme weather.”

Residents are also urged to park considerately to allow gritters to pass and to check on vulnerable neighbours. The council has reminded drivers to prepare their vehicles for winter and carry essentials like de-icers and blankets.