REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore has written to Worcestershire County Council seeking clear answers over the response to recent snow and icy conditions, following widespread reports from residents of untreated roads and pavements.
During the recent cold snap, the MP received a lot of emails and phone calls from constituents across Redditch and the surrounding villages raising concerns about difficult and, in some cases, unsafe conditions for drivers and pedestrians.
He said residents reported skidding vehicles, hazardous junctions and slippery footways, causing disruption and anxiety, particularly for vulnerable people and those relying on emergency services.
Mr Bloore has been clear his concerns are not directed at frontline gritting teams or highways staff, who, he acknowledges, have worked hard within the guidance and resources available.
Instead, his intervention focuses on the planning, prioritisation and resourcing behind the gritting response.
In his letter, he has asked for detailed information on what plans and schedules were in place for gritting roads and pavements, how decisions were made about which areas to treat, including the priority system used and why some roads and footways appeared to be left untreated.
He also asked how many grit boxes remained within Redditch and when they were last filled.
The MP added: “Reports of skidding vehicles and hazardous junctions are deeply worrying and maintaining safe roads and footways is a vital public service.
“I want to be clear that this is not a criticism of gritting teams or highways staff, who I know are working hard.
“However, residents deserve clear answers about how decisions are made, whether resources are sufficient and what steps will be taken to ensure communities can move safely during future periods of wintry weather.”
With cold conditions continuing, especially at night, Mr Bloore is also gathering detailed feedback from residents about ungritted roads and footways, locations which felt particularly unsafe and any ongoing concerns.
This information will be used to press the county council for improvements and reassurance.
He added: “Listening to residents’ experiences is essential.
“Their first-hand accounts will help ensure these concerns are properly raised and that lessons are learned, so safety is prioritised when severe winter weather hits again.”
Coun Jo Monk, Worcestershire County Council leader, said: “Now I’ve formally received the letter from Chris Bloore, I will work with officers and respond in due course.”
