IT MAY still be summer but Bournemouth council is already planning for the winter, splashing out on two new gritters to keep the roads ice-free.

The gritters, which will cost £120,000, will replace ones that are more than 20 years old and no longer fit for purpose.

Bournemouth has also joined forces with other councils to try and prevent a repeat of the grit and salt shortages that were experienced in many parts of the country last winter.

It has formed a consortium with Dorset, Poole, Swindon and South Gloucestershire councils to buy in salt supplies.

Each of the partners has agreed to help each other out if supplies run low and the consortium can also buy the salt at reduced prices.

Bournemouth has fully replenished its supply of grit from last winter and has placed orders for replacement stocks.

It is also investigating the use of a treated salt called Safecote, which has particularly effective de-icing properties.

Cllr Robert Lawton, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “In Bournemouth we are always keen to plan ahead to ensure we are fully prepared for every eventuality.

“It may be sunny outside but a lot of work has gone on to ensure we are fully equipped to deal with another harsh winter.

“Whilst some areas of the country ran dry of salt we have put contingency plans in place, through working with other councils, to ensure this hopefully won’t happen in Bournemouth, whilst at the same time achieving best value for our taxpayers.”