Deal gives key role to farmers in snow clearing

Farmers and agricultural contractors are set to play a bigger role in snow clearing in the worst of the winter weather following agreement on a new code of practice.

The code, produced jointly by NFU Scotland, Transport Scotland and the Society of Chief Officers of Transportation in Scotland, recognises the vital role farmers and contractors played during the severe winters of 2009-10 and 2010-11.

It acknowledges the opportunity for local authorities to utilise farmers’ time and equipment and their position in the local community to help keep roads clear of snow and ice and keep the country running.

The chairman of the NFUS legal and technical committee, John Smith, said farmers had proven themselves able and willing to play their part in assisting local authorities in the harshest of weather.

“Keeping all roads clear in winter not only benefits the food and farming sectors, but ensures all communities, no matter how remote and vulnerable, have access to the full range of required services,” said Smith.

Local authorities and the emergency services were full of praise for the work of farmers in 2009 and 2010 keeping roads open and ensuring vital services continued.

“This code will put in place a more formal arrangement for those undertaking emergency snow clearing,” said Smith.

EDDIE GILLANDERS