Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee recommends approval of the revised Winter Maintenance Policy (2017-19) - Appendix 1 and the procedures contained therein for delivering the winter maintenance service; and

(b)       That the Committee notes the details of the county’s response to other adverse weather events and recommends approval of the new Sand Bag Distribution Policy - Appendix 2.

The Highways Network Manager presented an update report on proposed changes to the Winter Maintenance Policy along with details of the county’s response to other adverse weather conditions, seeking approval of the new Sand Bag Distribution Policy to be activated during periods of heavy rainfall or other flooding events.  During the presentation, the Council’s statutory duties were summarised and details shared on the operating arrangements for the winter service.

In response to questions from Councillor Paul Shotton, the Manager explained that the Sand Bag Distribution Policy had been developed to enable a consistent regional response due to the potential for flooding to affect cross-boundary areas.  Discussions were taking place on accessing Welsh Government funding for councils and Natural Resources Wales.

Councillor Haydn Bateman queried spend for 2016/17 and was informed that this reflected an increase in the number of salt callouts on frosty evenings as opposed to snow events.  The Chief Officer (Streetscene & Transportation) said that information on the number of callouts over the past two years would be shared with the Committee.  Following a suggestion by Councillor Bateman, it was agreed that arrangements would be made for the Committee to view one of the new gritting fleet vehicles at County Hall.

Councillor Owen Thomas praised the service but pointed out the impact on rural roads if snow ploughs were delayed in responding to snow events.  The Manager agreed to pass on this comment to the Duty Officer and explained that roads were prioritised for treatment.  He said that the Council was able to call upon a number of agricultural contractors and would circulate details of those called out over a 3-year period.

In response to a question from Councillor Veronica Gay, officers gave a reminder of the agreed joint arrangements for sheltered accommodation involving Streetscene and Housing.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Committee recommends approval of the revised Winter Maintenance Policy (2017-19) - Appendix 1 and the procedures contained therein for delivering the winter maintenance service; and

(b)       That the Committee notes the details of the county’s response to other adverse weather events and recommends approval of the new Sand Bag Distribution Policy - Appendix 2.