Robert Aldridge: Digging deep to beat freeze

WE don't know if we are in for another shocker of a winter, but the council will be pulling out all the stops to lessen the blow if it is.

Last year saw the worst winter to hit Edinburgh for more than 30 years, and with roads and pavements to make safe, schools to keep open and vulnerable people to protect, the pressure was on the council.

While a huge effort went into this, with many members of staff missing Christmas and New Year and an extra 2.5 million being spent, it became clear that certain issues had to be dealt with before we face another cold snap like that one.

An internal review of the procedures that were followed led to the formation of a severe weather plan.

Eight mini tractors have been acquired, bringing our total up to 20. More lorries have been fitted with gritting equipment, and our salt stockpiles - which did not run out last year - have been increased by 2000 tonnes.

One complaint made following 2009's wintry conditions was that residential streets and pavements were not being gritted enough.

I can't promise that all roads and footways will be kept free of snow and ice - there just isn't enough staff and equipment. With more than 5000 roads, we have to prioritise essential routes. However, the increase in equipment and extra salt supplies will make a difference this time around.

One myth that needs to be knocked on the head is that clearing one's own path could leave a person liable to being sued if someone then slips. The Health and Safety Executive issued an assurance that this is not the case. Top-up requests can be made on 0800 232323.

A single database of vulnerable people has also been set up. Each of the Capital's local authority departments now has a severe winter weather plan.

• Councillor Aldridge is the environmental convener for Edinburgh City Council.