Winter Information

 

 

Before each winter season commences, we conduct a review of the winter service and make alterations where appropriate.

 - Planned winter actions are undertaken by our Roads Maintenance Unit.

 - View Frequently Asked Questions regarding our winter service provisions.   

 - Our annual Winter Service Plan [PDF 1.28mb] Contains full details of our winter maintenance service.

Gritter tracking

The Ayrshire Roads Alliance have implemented a Gritter Tracking system

- Gritter Tracking provides details of out of hour winter service operations.

- Gritters can be viewed from 4:00pm on receipt of adverse weather forecast.

Gritting routes

Roads covered in our priority one gritting routes are gritted upon receipt of a weather forecast indicating the onset of frost, ice or snow provided the forecast is issued sufficiently early.

- This is usually carried out prior to the onset of adverse weather conditions.

- Priority two and three gritting routes are gritted as and when resources are available.

- Gritting routes can be viewed on our Gritter Tracking System

Grit bins

Grit bins are located throughout East and South Ayrshire for your convenience. 

- Find your nearest grit bin, let us know a grit bin is empty or apply for a grit bin on our Gritter Tracking system.

 Flooding

Flooding can have a devastating effect on people, property, business and land.

We work in partnership with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to provide flood prevention information, flood alerts and flood warnings to the residents of East and South Ayrshire.

Ayrshire Roads Alliance (Emergency 24 hours)

We will assist as much as is practicable during flood events.

- This can include the provision of sandbags to properties in imminent danger of being flooded.

- Supply of sandbags will be prioritised as sandbag stocks are limited.

Contact us:

During office hours: 01563 503 160 

East Ayrshire out of hours: 0345 724 0000

South Ayrshire out of hours: 0300 123 0900

View further information relating to Flooding 

Winter Driving

Driving in winter weather can be challenging and dangerous if you're not prepared. It's important to make sure your vehicle is equipped with proper tires, such as snow tires or chains, and that you have enough antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid.

When driving in snowy or icy conditions, it's important to slow down and increase your distance to allow for more stopping time. Additionally, be sure to clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving, including your windows, mirrors, and lights.

Be prepared: Keep an emergency kit in your car and at home in case of power outages or other emergencies.

Stay alert and focused on the road: avoid sudden movements or sharp turns. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe driving experience.

For further information visit: Winter Driving

Handy resources for winter driving:

Gritter tracking

Met Office

Police Scotland

Ready Scotland

Road Safety Scotland

SEPA

Traffic Scotland

Severe Weather

In Ayrshire the weather can change quickly, fog snow, high winds and heavy rain can all arrive on the same day. 

When the weather takes a turn it's important to plan ahead and adjust the way you travel to keep yourself and others safe. 

Our teams monitor conditions across East and South Ayrshire and respond to:

  • Snow and icy surfaces
  • Heavy rain and flooding
  • Debris or fallen trees and branches

Gritters, drainage crews and out emergency response teams work around the clock as needed

 

Before you travel 

  • Check the weather forecast and any travel warnings.
  • Check your vehicle especially your tyres, lights and fluid levels.
  • Look at live information such as Gritter Tracking. 
  • Allow extra time for your journey or consider delaying your journey if conditions are very poor. 
  • Make sure your vehicle has enough fuel or charge for possible delays. 

 

Stay updated:

Gritter tracking

Met Office

Police Scotland

Ready Scotland

Road Safety Scotland

SEPA

Traffic Scotland

Ayrshire Roads Alliance (Emergency 24 hours)

We will assist as much as is practicable during severe weather events.

  • This can include the provision of sandbags to properties in imminent danger of being flooded.
  • Supply of sandbags will be prioritised as sandbag stocks are limited.

 

Contact us:

During office hours: 01563 503 160 

East Ayrshire out of hours: 0345 724 0000

South Ayrshire out of hours: 0300 123 0900

 

For further information visit: Winter Driving

Stay safe on the roads

When its foggy: 

  • Use fog lights
  • Use dipped headlights
  • keep a safe distance
  • slow down gradually

 

When winds are strong: 

  • Keep both hands firmly on the wheel 
  • Look out for gusts on open roads
  • Look out for debris on the road
  • Be cautious passing large vehicles

 

In heavy rain: 

  • Keep an eye out for surface water 
  • Reduce your driving speed
  • Never drive through deep flood water

 

When there's snow or ice:

  • Allow extra travel time
  • Clear snow and ice from all windows and mirrors, as well as the roof of your car
  • Drive slowly and brake gently

Be prepared

 

Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, this could include: 

  • Warm blanket and clothes
  • Ice scraper and de-icer
  • Torch and spare batteries
  • First aid kit
  • High-energy snacks and water
  • Mobile phone charger
  • Fully charged power bank.
  • Shovel for clearing snow
  • Jump leads

Planning ahead, staying alert and driving to the conditions can help keep everyone safe. 

Contact Information 

Phone: 01563 503 160

E-mail: enquiries@ayrshireroadsalliance.org

Address:  Ayrshire Roads Alliance, Opera House, 8 John Finnie Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 1DD

 

 


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