A fleet of gritter lorries is set to keep West Dunbartonshire moving this winter if there is a big freeze.

The council’s roads team has stock-piled 3,700 tons of rock salt at depots in Dumbarton and Clydebank which will be spread by eight gritting vehicles.

The gritters will regularly treat primary routes across the area this winter, with secondary routes being considered for gritting during prolonged periods of adverse weather.

In addition, the Greenspace team will again be treating priority footpaths in town centres and around schools, care homes and other key locations.

And with 422 roadside grit bins located across West Dunbartonshire, the council says no home should be more than 300 metres away from a stock of grit which can be used by residents to treat pavements when required.

The number of grit bins in the area represents one of the highest numbers per head of population in Scotland.

Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration & Economic Development, said: “As is the case every year, a lot of planning and preparation has gone into making sure the council is ready for winter.

"That includes replenishing grit stocks and ensuring we have the staff and equipment ready to deal with the worst of the weather.

"Our workforce who maintain roads and footpaths are well prepared for all eventualities and I’m sure they will do a fantastic job again this year.

"Some disruptions are inevitable if severe weather hits, but we will do everything possible to ensure this is kept to a minimum.”

Councillor Diane Docherty, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration & Economic Development, added: “Often the weather can turn quickly and without much advance notice, which is why our teams ensure the primary road network is gritted to keep traffic moving.

"I would encourage all residents to bear in mind that journeys often take longer in bad weather and to plan extra time this winter.”

For information on gritting routes, the location of all grit bins and other winter tips, visit www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/gritting