ROAD workers have 22,000 tonnes of salt ready for use in the East of England this winter.

The Highways Agency has 14 depots across the region, including a salt barn in Birchanger, near Stansted, which stores 5,500 tonnes alone.

Highways Agency winter manager Andy Shilliday said: “We have 60 salt spreading vehicles and 70 ploughs.

“We use detailed weather forecasts and treat the road network before road temperatures fall below freezing, often at night in preparation for peak traffic periods.

“But that doesn’t mean people should drive as they normally would, in severe weather drivers need to take care and plan ahead.

“We will do all we can to keep the roads open during severe weather but if drivers can carry out a few simple vehicle checks, pack a few important winter items in their vehicles and plan journeys, we can work together to keep the regions roads moving.”