Gritting cut as supplies dwindle

The council's supplies have been diverted to other parts of the UK

A council in south west Scotland has cut its gritting programme due to the demands of continuing bad weather.

A statement from the Dumfries and Galloway authority said it had supplies to last five days and "no guarantees" that more could be delivered.

It means minor roads will get only limited treatment and pavements will go without grit to conserve stocks.

Drivers and pedestrians have been urged to take extra care for as long as the revised programme is in place.

The council said that a national shortage of salt meant that supplies destined for the area had been diverted.

Group manager Ronnie Dempster said it had no choice but to "reassess" its position.

"Our priority must be to keep the main roads open and as safe as possible," he said.

Householders and shopkeepers have also been asked to do what they can to tackle any problems outside their premises.

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