Agenda

Question:

Following the recent adverse weather events on 19th November 2024 and 4th-5th January 2025, and with the continued risk of severe winter weather, I am deeply concerned about the inadequate provision of road salt piles and the overall effectiveness of winter maintenance within the Llandinam with Dolfor ward.

This significant issue raises several crucial questions:

•         Why have road salt piles not been adequately distributed and maintained in my ward, despite the known winter maintenance requirements, the recent periods of severe weather, and the Council's own winter maintenance policies?

•         Is this due to a shortage of resources, such as salt, gritting vehicles, or appropriately trained staff, or are there systemic issues with the planning, prioritisation, and execution of winter maintenance operations within the authority?

•         If resource constraints are the primary factor, what specific actions is the Council taking to address these limitations and ensure adequate winter maintenance across the county, with a particular focus on meeting the identified needs of the Llandinam with Dolfor ward?

•         What specific measures are in place to prioritise the needs of vulnerable rural communities within the Llandinam with Dolfor ward, particularly those reliant on class C and unclassified roads for essential activities such as livestock farming (including feeding, receiving feed deliveries, and transporting livestock to market), ensuring their safety and access during periods of severe weather?

I believe the timely and effective distribution and maintenance of road salt piles, coupled with a robust and responsive winter maintenance strategy, are crucial for the safety, well-being, and economic viability of all residents in the Llandinam with Dolfor ward. I urge the CEO to address these concerns promptly and provide a detailed plan of action to ensure adequate winter maintenance within my ward.