Highways bosses in England have vowed to "work round the clock" to free nearly all of the nation's motorways and A-roads from roadworks before Christmas. National Highways said it is doing all it can to make sure people can get to their loved ones for the festive period and aim to have nearly 98 per cent of major routes roadworks-free.
As part of Christmas plans, National Highways said disruption will be kept to a minimum on most of the country's ongoing roadworks from 6am on December 20 until 12.01am on January 3. However, motorists are also being urged to check the traffic and condition of their vehicle before setting off, especially with the recent cold snap freezing England.
Bristol is one of the areas which has been hit by sub-zero temperatures while areas of motorway in Somerset and Gloucestershire have also been covered in snow recently, with several crashes reported as a result. Looking ahead for the coming week, temperatures are set to remain low as Christmas approaches, meaning icy roads may continue to be an issue.
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Elsewhere, National Highways said it is also looking to ensure upcoming industrial action being staged by the PCS union involving traffic officers and control room staff over the next few weeks does not hamper motorists. The Government-owned company said there are "comprehensive plans in place", including resources being shared between control centres.
National highways customer service director, Andrew Butterfield said: "We don’t want roadworks to spoil Christmas so we’re doing everything we can to make journeys as smooth as possible; that’s why we’re keeping almost 98 per cent of the road network we manage free from roadworks. We know from experience that peak travel times can vary in the run up to Christmas and so we’re encouraging drivers to check traffic conditions before heading out to help keep traffic flowing.
"And we’re also asking motorists to be prepared before setting off. Almost half of breakdowns can be easily avoided if motorists carry out simple vehicle checks before their journeys."
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said the removal of the roadworks is particularly was to be welcomed. Mr Harper said: "Being stuck in traffic can take the joy out of travelling home over the festive period.
"Given the disruption expected from the transport unions’ strike action and cold weather, I’m pleased that we could act to remove these roadworks - reducing congestion and helping people with their important journeys this Christmas."
The following advice has been given to motorists for the festive period getaway:
Before setting off, motorists are encouraged to:
- Check fuel: Make sure you have enough to get to your destination
- Check tyres: Check your tyre pressure and the condition of your tyres, including the spare. Look out for cuts or wear and make sure the tyres have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, which is the legal limit
- Check engine oil: Use your dipstick to check oil before any long journey, and top up if needed - take your car back to the garage if you’re topping up more than usual
- Check water: To ensure you have good visibility, always keep your screen wash topped up so you can clear debris or dirt off your windscreen
- Check your lights: If your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly, you are putting yourself at risk. In addition, light malfunctions can be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MOT
Essential advice for motorists this winter season
- Stick to the main roads where you can and only travel if necessary.
- Slow down – it can take 10 times longer to stop in icy conditions.
- Use a high gear – this will help avoid wheel spin.
- Accelerate gently, using low revs. You may need to take off in second gear to avoid skidding.
- You may need up to 10 times the normal gap between your car and the car in front.
- Try not to brake suddenly – it may lock up your wheels and you could skid further.
- Be extra cautious at road junctions where road markings may not be visible.
- Look out for gritters spreading salt or using snow ploughs, and only overtake if it's safe to do so.
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