Winter transport plans to be unveiled

Ways of keeping transport moving during severe weather next winter will be outlined in a Government-commissioned report today.

The interim report will look at the supply of road salt, the way highway authorities plan for next winter, and the availability and accuracy of weather forecasts.

The report, from a winter resilience review team, will also look at the question of clearance of snow and ice by members of the public.

Chaired by RAC Foundation chairman David Quarmby, the review was set up earlier this year by former transport secretary Lord Adonis after 2009/10 proved to be the worst winter for 30 years.

Although most major road routes stayed open during the severest wintry spells, conditions on many side roads were treacherous for motorists and pedestrians.

There were concerns from some local authorities about salt supplies, while the icy conditions caused much pothole damage.

Mr Quarmby and his team, whose brief covers just England, will set out measures today to improve preparations for next winter.

The second phase of the review will consider wider aspects of resilience across the various transport modes.

Also on the review team are former Cambridgeshire County Council executive director Brian Smith and former Virgin Trains boss Chris Green.