Grit shortage: Why are we the poor relation?

THIS was Vale Royal Islington’s central council depot yesterday (Thursday) amid claims that there was only enough grit to last the borough just a few hours. As the temperature continued to plummet with people slipping on icy roads and pavements Labour Councillor Gary Doolan estimated there was enough grit for four lorry loads. He accused the council of under-investing to cope with the coldest winter in 30 years and the most “lethal” pavements in living memory. “We’ve had the majority of pavements turned into sheets of ice,” said Cllr Doolan. “But it seems that Islington is the poor relation when it comes to getting suf­ficient grit. “We never buy enough and we always end up with icy roads and pavements.” Cllr Doolan said that he had proposed that the council introduce a ­winter maintenance plan last year but it was never taken up. “Council officials say if you buy grit too early it goes solid,” he said. “But you can turn it over or add liquid to it to keep it fresh. “Perhaps the council should spend less money on the Christmas party and more on winter ­safety.” With a desperate shortage of grit in London it was unlikely a new supply would be available for some while, according to Cllr Doolan. “In neighbouring Haringey they have, I understand, a mountain of grit but not enough to give to Islington.” Dozens of schools remined closed today (Friday). The council is asking everyone to check that their neighbours, particularly the elderly or ill are OK in the current chill. • www.islington.gov.uk/council/snow