A Winter service plan for 2026/27 setting out how the Council will prepare for and respond to winter weather across the region has been approved by Executive Committee.
The approved service plan builds on the successful delivery of winter services during 2025/26 and will continue existing arrangements for winter maintenance, including the ongoing use of enhanced salt spreading practices and the introduction of automated salting technology across much of our gritting fleet.
Key 25/26 winter information:
- 150 planned actions to treat roads and footpaths
- Decreased salt use on both road and footways.
- Salt bin usage was below the long-term average with additional refills throughout the winter period
- Winter treatments extended into April.
- Continued strong community self-help and partnership working through Resilient community groups and others.
Preparing for winter 26/27:
In preparing to deal with this winter, the Council currently has:
- Over 15,000 tonnes of salt in stock.
- More than 1,200 grit bins across the region.
- 41 gritters
- 23 footway gritters
- Access to additional contractors to support winter operations where required.
Councillor John Greenwell, Executive Member for Roads and Public Space Development:
"Each year we undertake a comprehensive review of our winter maintenance arrangements, drawing on operational experience, performance data and feedback from communities to ensure we are as prepared as possible for the winter season ahead.
“The Winter Service Plan provides a clear framework for how we respond to winter weather. We continue to plan for a range of weather conditions and maintain the staff, equipment and salt stocks required to respond effectively when winter weather arrives, enabling us to keep key routes open, support our communities and maintain safe travel across the Scottish Borders.
“Given the size and geography of the Scottish Borders, it is not possible for us to be everywhere at once. That is why the contribution of our Resilient Communities, community volunteers and local self-help initiatives remains so important. Their support helps strengthen local resilience and allows our resources to be focused where they are needed most during periods of severe weather.
“I would also like to thank our staff, contractors, and community partners whose dedication and commitment help us deliver this essential service year after year. By continuing to work together, we can help keep communities moving safely throughout the winter months."
There's more information on our winter weather pages, including gritting routes, winter travel advice and frequently asked questions (FAQ’s).