BOROUGH of Poole (BOP) has stockpiled 1,200 tonnes of road salt to ensure the town does not "grind to a halt" this winter.

Council staff have received updated adverse weather training, the borough's six gritters have been out testing precautionary routes, priority sites have been prepared for manual gritting and staff have been trained in road weather forecasting, says the borough.

As well as the 1,200 tonnes of road salt in stock, arrangements are in place with neighbouring authorities for the provision of even more if needed.

Meanwhile, 63 grit bins in locations throughout the borough have also been prepared in readiness for snow and ice in the coming months.

Cllr John Rampton, cabinet member of environment, said: "The last few winters have presented a range of challenges to councils up and down the country.

"Our staff worked throughout the night on several occasions to help make sure Poole didn't grind to a halt.

"We have used these experiences, together with a major investment in a new salt barn, to ensure this year's preparations are robust enough to cope with whatever weather this winter brings."