Transport plans in place as snow falls in London

Luke Jacobs Monday, January 14, 2013
8:16 AM

Londoners have woken up to a light dusting of snow this morning as the capital braces itself for a week of wintry weather.

Transport bosses have drawn up preparations to prevent the network grinding to a halt because of ice or snow.

More than 89,000 tonnes of salt have been stockpiled by Transport for London and London boroughs to ensure that all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, can continue to get around the capital.

A fleet of road gritters have also been out and about to keep roads clear, while arrangements are in place to enable boroughs to share salt stores with each other should they require them.

The pan-London ‘Strategic Salt Reserve’ which contains around 27,000 tonnes is also available should supplies become low. It has not been used for the last two winters.

Richard Jones, London Underground’s head of network operations, said: “This year, we have once again made every preparation possible and have well-rehearsed procedures in place should harsh weather conditions hit London.

“Our staff are working around the clock to make sure that the risk of disruption during freezing conditions is minimised, gritting the roads, de-icing the rails and gritting the platforms.”

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