The council’s nine gritting vehicles have now hit roads for the first time since March, with priority routes such as those connected to schools and hospitals being treated first.

Following the drop to sub-zero temperatures on November 17, the local authority has reassured residents in a statement that its 1,800 tonnes of salt and 434 grit bins render it ‘well prepared for the colder months ahead’.

To ensure road safety is maintained, the council has confirmed that its highways team will be monitoring potentially hazardous weather and road conditions to support the welfare of motorists.

The statement also notes that maintenance services such as pothole repairs, as well as drain and gully clearing, will be delivered throughout the winter season.

Cllr Lucy Hodge, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Delivery, said: ‘We’re ready to provide a round-the-clock winter service to help keep priority routes open for our residents when the temperatures drop.’

Sign up here to receive our free weekly news bulletin and quarterly e-book.